The City of New Bedford is trying to offset mounting costs by putting a freeze on new hires.

Mayor Jon Mitchell ordered the freeze Tuesday, saying expenses the City has no control over are putting too much of a strain on New Bedford's finances.

Speaking on his weekly radio program, Mitchell says beyond the hiring freeze, the City needs to take a closer look at other cost saving measures.

Mitchell says the City employs fewer than 1,000 people, and several departments are already stretched too thin.

The Mayor adds energy efficiency initiatives in City-owned buildings and vehicles will continue to save the City money.

Mitchell says the hiring freeze will stay in place as long as necessary.

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