Layoffs may soon affect about 150 teachers in the Montclair School District.

Schools Superintendent Ruth B. Turner says it's an incredibly difficult decision, but the district is facing a $19.6 million shortfall.

The district also announced it will have a special election in December asking residents to help with the budget shortfall issue. It could save some of the jobs on the chopping block.

The terminations will take effect Dec. 31. However, the district is holding a special election Dec. 9, asking voters to authorize a property tax increase to help make up some of the shortfall.

That, in turn, could determine if some of the employees facing layoffs can keep their jobs.