Details are sketchy, but members of the Maplewood Policeman's Benevolent Association met Thursday night to discuss a possible deal. PBA President Kevin Kisch declined to comment, but other sources indicated the union was meeting to talk about the next move.

Mayor Vic De Luca confirmed there had been discussions, but also declined further comment. "I can't confirm or deny anything," he said.
"There's been some conversation this week. We've been talking."

Township officials also posted a public notice Thursday about a special Township Committee meeting set for Tuesday, June 30 at 8 a.m. The notice says only that the TC will meet "initially in closed session for contract negotiation discussions, followed by open session for possible action."

The police layoffs were first announced earlier this year along with the layoffs of three firefighters. Those were then rescinded after the firefighters union agreed to concessions that included a $500 health benefit premium increase and township officials announced federal grants could be obtained to keep the police officers on the payroll.

But last month, the police layoffs were again put back after the federal funding was delayed. That funding still may come through this fall. But without it, township officials had to plan for the June 30 layoff.

Earlier this year, other layoffs that included some 20 other township employees were made, along with a summer Friday furlough plan for all township employees that remains in effect through the end of August.