NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The proposed program cuts at Metro Parks may be just the tip of the city's money problems. The tough budget times will trickle into next year and beyond.

Watch This Story | Video: Future Of Metro Parks Director Uncertain

Once again, Metro number crunchers will have the task of keeping services running with a limited amount of money.

Tax revenue in Tennessee may be slightly improving but is still weak, meaning changes such as reduced hours at Metro libraries and parks may be the new norm.

"Our goal is not to cut out services," said Metro Finance Director Richard Riebeling.

Right now, Metro government employs about 24,000 people -- a number that isn't expected to grow, as there's a soft hiring freeze still in effect.

"I think you'll see it in place for the rest of this year, and I'd be surprised if you didn't see it for the next several years," Riebeling said.

The city's finance director said changes in the number of seasonal workers at Metro parks is part of the problem.

Parks director Roy Wilson will not grant any interviews until after a council meeting Nov. 16.