Berry takes over as mayor

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - New Albuquerque Mayor Richard J. Berry on Tuesday began his term telling department heads to spend tax dollars as they would spend their own money.

Spokesperson Chris Ramirez said the city's budget deficit could fall anywhere between $17 million and $24 million, and one of Berry's first orders of business is balancing the budget.

"It would be too soon right now to say whether or not we're looking at any furloughs or layoffs," Ramirez said. "However, it would be incorrect of me to say that that's not an option being considered. I think all options are on the table, and we have to see what's going to be best for this administration and, of course, for these employees."

Ramirez said Berry wants to run city government leaner than it has been run in previous administrations.

Berry in October defeated then-Mayor Martin Chávez, who was running for his fourth term. Berry will be ceremonially sworn in at 6 p.m. at the Albuquerque Convention Center.