Scenario: The City of Springfield is a mid-sized city with a diverse population and a range of public services to manage. Over the past few years, the city's budget has become increasingly strained due to various factors, including rising pension costs, a declining tax base, and the need to address growing demands for social services. The mayor, city council members, and the city's finance director are grappling with tough decisions as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year's budget. Key Issues: Pension Obligations: A significant portion of the city's budget is allocated to pension payments for retired city employees. These costs have been steadily increasing, leaving fewer funds available for essential services such as public safety, education, and infrastructure maintenance. Declining Revenue: The city has experienced a decline in tax revenue due to a slowdown in economic growth and population loss. This has resulted in decreased funds available for new initiatives and even basic service maintenance. Social Services Demand: The city is facing a surge in demand for social services, including housing assistance, mental health programs, and substance abuse treatment. Meeting these needs requires additional funding that the city currently struggles to allocate. Infrastructure Maintenance: Aging infrastructure, including roads, bridges