Cambria County leaders met Thursday to brainstorm ways to save money and create jobs.

Over the past year, several fire departments and police departments started working together to help save money. Speakers at the meeting said those types of collaborations need to continue.

While some people fear consolidation will cause them to lose their community identity, the speakers said sharing services will help save money at a time when many municipalities are struggling financially.

At the breakfast meeting, community leaders also said saving money could create new jobs.

"With all the municipalities and all of the school districts, that puts a pretty heavy burden on business. So, to the extent they collaborate, they become more efficient (and) businesses can do more hiring," said former Johnstown Mayor Don Zucco.

Speakers at the briefing also said federal and state grants generally go to communities that are working together rather than on their own.