Flint's state-appointed emergency financial manager says the city remains in a financial emergency and needs a tax increase to prevent major cuts to city services.

The Flint Journal reports the remarks from Ed Kurtz came Thursday during his first news conference since being appointed to the position.

Kurtz says property tax revenue has sharply declined over the years, and the city's pension and other post-employment benefit obligations are a major part of the problem.

He says the outcome of doing nothing would be "catastrophic." City voters are expected to see a proposed property tax increase for police and fire services on the November ballot.

His comments come after Flint City Council sued, seeking to block his actions. Some say the city no longer faces a financial emergency.