The commission discussed the possible cuts at their meeting Tuesday.

Tuesday night, County Manager Harry Jones recommended eliminating 334 full-time positions in next year’s budget, 245 of which are already vacant. Seventy-eight code enforcement positions funded by fees would be cut.

County leaders said cutting jobs could slice the $79 million shortfall in half for next budget year. Meanwhile, Jones said unpaid furloughs could be another option to cut costs.

To make up the remaining $39 million shortfall, officials said more cuts would come from the county’s partner agencies, such as CMS, CPCC and WTVI.

The full recommended budget will be released May 19, with public hearings to follow.