Wayne County Workers Face Layoffs

Up to 700 county employees in Wayne County, Michigan are facing temporary layoffs during Memorial Day and other holidays during 2010.  Wayne County, which includes the city of Detroit, is running a $100 million budget deficit.  The county estimates that the temporary layoffs will save $1.5 million.

While most county employees have accepted voluntary 10% pay cuts, members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees have declined.  Union members include road crews, social workers, and county clerical staff.

County Executive Robert Ficano recently tried to issue furlough days to some union workers, but was sued by the union for breach of contract.  Both parties seem destined to end up back in court before the issue is settled.