UTICA - The New Year's going to be a different year for Utica City Hall, and not just because of the new person in the Mayor's seat.

Several city employees might not have jobs as of January 2, and some have already been told not to report back to work after New Year's Day.

Public Safety Commissioner Philip Taurisano is one of the city employees who received a letter from mayor-elect David Roefaro stating that he would not have a job after the start of the new year. Taurisano, a retired police officer, has served in the position since March.

"I really liked what I've done," Taurisano said. "And I have no hard feelings. And I'm only gonna be a phone call away."

The position of Public Safety Commissioner has been publicly advertised. Advertising city positions to give all those eligible within the city the chance was something Roefaro continuously stressed during his campaign to "...ensure that all citizens are given equal opportunity to apply for city positions."

On the matter of who might be filling Taurisano's role as Public Safety Commissioner, mayor-elect Roefaro said he would not comment on city personnel issues at this time, or who he was interviewing for the position.

"I know all these people," Taurisano said. "They've been friends of mine for years. They're democrats. I happen to be republican. And that's basically it."

Now, Roefaro said he needed to finish interviewing potential candidates and meet with his interview team before he makes any decision and announcement on the position.

Shortly before the election, mayor-elect Roefaro stated that costs and debt were an issue facing the city saying that the City of Utica was paying out more money for rising costs of services that were unnecessary.

While Commissioner Taurisano's salary has been $30,000 a year, when Roefaro recently advertised the position, it seems whoever he appoints will be making quite a bit more than Taurisano - as Roefaro posted that the city would be paying out a pay scale of $50,000 - $70,000 a year to the new Public Safety Commissioner.

Roefaro refused to comment any further on the issue this morning, or say what other city employees could be expecting a similar letter.