Wayne County reaches tentative deal with unions

DETROIT (AP) -- Wayne County has reached tentative agreements with its employee unions that avoid 5 percent wage cuts recommended by the financially struggling county's executive.

County commissioners were told Wednesday of the agreements that still require union approval.  Chief Restructuring Officer Tony Saunders says "tremendous progress" has been made with the unions.

Other terms weren't available.

County commissioners last month approved a key document that gives sweeping authority to officials to impose labor contracts.

Michigan's largest county has a financial emergency and a consent agreement between the state and Wayne County is intended to be a step toward resolving it.