Quincy University President Robert Gervasi asked Quincy aldermen Monday night if the city would consider becoming one of 10 local entities to pledge $15,000 annually toward the cost of operating public radio station WQUB.

Gervasi said the university is hoping to ease the financial pressure it faces by converting WQUB into “a true public radio partnership” with other community supporters willing take on a share of the $150,000 cash subsidy.

Gervasi admitted the request comes at an awkward time, with the city facing a $1.8 million revenue shortfall — a number that could rise if the state’s financial picture worsens — and requiring all employees to take three unpaid days off by the end of December.

City officials didn’t rule it out, but admitted accommodating QU’s request could be difficult given the economic climate. But there may be hope: The city two weeks ago came up with $16,849 to boost the salaries of three department heads already earning a combined $234,970 to compensate them for taking on extra duties created by early retirements and vacancies.

Don’t be surprised if those hikes, coming at a time when managers everywhere are assuming more work without more pay because of a shrinking economy, generate conversation when unions are asked to hold the line during contract negotiations early next year.