KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Like many Americans who are worried about the economy, many Kansas City police officers are worried how it will affect their jobs.

KCTV5's Eric Chaloux rode along with some Kansas City officers to hear what they're saying and how it could impact you.

While following one suspect, the officers had to drive hard to catch the vehicle. Their brakes failed; that's not an uncommon thing for police cars, these officers said.

Sgt. Jim Shulte said his patrol cars are often unavailable for use while repairs are being made.

"We've got to keep them running with bailing wire and anything under the sun," said Shulte.

He said the bad guys don't scare him, but fear of $10 million in possible budget cuts to the department in a few weeks have him and many others on the force uneasy.

Police officials say more than 200 of their 2,200 department employees might be let go.

"Most nights we're already short-staffed. I don't know how we'd do with less officers on the streets," said Sgt. Brain Rawley.

There are about 90 bars within the patrol zone from Westport to the River Market. Police say if there were two big disturbances at closing time, it would black them out -- meaning other 911 calls could be put on hold.

"It's all about choices and there are no easy choices," said Mayor Mark Funkhouser.

Funkhouser recommended that the council spare the police department from the budget cuts. But the money has to be cut somewhere to make up for the city's more than $80 million shortfall.

"Let's put it this way. We've got several ideas all bouncing around. We will get this done. I don't have the details, but they're coming," said City Councilwoman Deb Hermann.

The council must pass a balanced budget by March 26.