(AP) — The mayor and the Omaha firefighters union may be getting closer to a deal that would avert the layoffs of 19 firefighters on Jan. 4.

The office of Mayor Jean Stothert (STAH’-thurt) said Friday that she’s accepted a counterproposal sent by the Omaha Professional Fire Fighters Association on Thursday night.

But the union said Friday morning that it had received a new offer from the mayor that contained additional conditions. Union President Steve LeClair said the mayor’s offer is being considered.

Omaha started sending layoff notices to 19 firefighters Monday as a way to cut costs because the fire department is $6.2 million over its 2013 budget.