New Haven, Connecticut Braces for Job Cuts

Workers employed by the city of New Haven, Connecticut are bracing for layoffs after a majority of the city’s unions have failed to reach agreements on concessions.

City officials say they are preparing to cut 241 jobs, of which 166 are currently filled. The planned cuts are intended to balance the city’s 2009-2010 budget.

The city asked its 14 unions to make about $10 million in concessions by trimming salaries and making other cuts. But by yesterday morning, only the unions representing public works employees & parks employees had reached agreements with the city.

The city plans to finalize its budget by February 26th, leaving some time for additional negotiations with the unions. Layoff notices will go out to city workers February 27th for cuts that will take effect immediately. Workers with the school district will be notified April 1st for cuts that take effect at the end of the school year.

Mayor John DeStefano has agreed to a 3% pay cut.