The Mayor and City Council, in partnership with labor unions and the community, eliminated 77% of a two year General Fund deficit of $277 million by using highly collaborative and innovative measure other than reductions in services (2009-10 through 2010-11).  This was accomplished through new and innovative approaches to fiscal management and service delivery, leadership, collaboration, and extensive community participation.  These efforts prevented the elimination or reduction of many vital services such as police, fire, senior services, libraries, after-school programs, youth sports, and public transit.