Mayor Michael Bloomberg says he's skeptical about a deal between the city and the United Federation of Teachers over an evaluation system.

During his weekly radio show, the mayor said the two sides were close to an agreement when talks fell apart just before a state deadline last week.

City schools lost $250 million in state aid and grants because of the stalemate.

More funding is on the line if a deal isn't in place by March 1.

The mayor says the union wants differentials based solely on seniority, not competency or productivity.

State officials could impose an agreement, but the mayor says he doesn't think Governor Andrew Cuomo wants to get involved.

Bloomberg is expected to talk about the issue with lawmakers in Albany on Monday.