A poll released by Quinnipiac University today finds that although Mayor Michael Bloomberg's approval rating dropped by nine percent, he still has a double-digit lead over two announced challengers for the post.

The poll also finds that while New Yorkers agree the city is facing a major budget crisis, they are not willing to give up their property tax rebate.

Bloomberg says that with the faltering economy, the city can no longer afford the $250 million it would shell out in tax rebates to homeowners.

Some City Council members have filed a lawsuit, arguing the money was approved in the budget and should be paid out. A court hearing is set for December 11th.

According to the poll, 66 percent of New York City voters say the city's budget problems are very serious, but by a 52 to 43 percent margin, voters are opposed to the mayor's plan to cancel the $400 property tax rebate.

There is not much of a difference between homeowners and renters; both groups are opposed to the plan.

Quinnipiac surveyed nearly 1,600 registered voters in the city in the past week.

The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points.