Monday, March 30, 2009
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Youngstown Mayor Jay Williams
YOUNGSTOWN — Layoffs of city employees could be avoided if employee unions agree to give up “special pay,” Mayor Jay Williams said.
“Special pay” includes longevity [payments given to workers for the number of years employed by the city], clothing allowances, bonuses for not using sick pay and for having college degrees, among other benefits, Williams said.
The elimination of those payments would save the city about $1.5 million annually, Williams said today after city council voted to approve the 2009 budget. Those cuts would be made by workers and management, he said.
The budget calls for $860,000 in personnel costs, most of it from the police department. That could mean up to 34 city workers being laid off at the end of next month.
Also, the city is keeping 14 positions vacant, saving $874,230 a year.
Enrique Suarez, chairman of the Solidarity Group, which includes officials from each of the eight unions representing the city, declined to comment today on Williams’ proposal.
Group officials will meet Tuesday with the administration and city council members to discuss the city’s finances.
For the complete story, read Tuesday’s Vindicator or Vindy.com