WILKES-BARRE - The city offered an alternative incentive package to eligbile retirees and would pay them $400 a month for three years if they retire by Nov. 21.

The city previously offered to continue health care coverage for retirees and their spouses and dependents for three years.

The incentives were put forth to help the city reduce payroll and provide some relief for the revenue shortfalls it faces.

If the response from employees does not significantly improve the city's finances, the offer would be taken off the table, the city said in a press release.

The city said it would delay announcing the decision on furloughs until after the response from the latest offer. Eligible employees must respond by Nov. 13.