As the saying went, "A single penny can stump a hero," let alone half a billion.

Previously, the projects were initiated because three major companies had promised funding—there was no dedicated budget from the municipality. Elijah had good relations with these companies and dared to take bold steps.

Now, however, after Donald offended the Innova Group, they pulled their investment, leaving him utterly helpless.

Donald was anxious. The special funds would only last a few more days—what could be done?

But Donald had no shortage of ideas. He gathered his subordinates for a meeting. During the meeting, he made a decisive announcement: all departments would suspend salary payments for three months! The salary funds would be redirected to keep the projects going.

Everyone was stunned.

"Mayor, isn’t this a bit extreme? Even if we consider all units in Salt City, three months of salaries amount to only a few million. The gap is still enormous!"

"When salaries can’t be paid, people wil