Camden, New Jersey May Hold 500 Layoffs In 2011

Camden, New Jersey is facing massive layoffs come January if, according to Mayor Dana Redd, union officials cannot agree to contractual concessions.

The fire and police departments, in addition to non-uniformed workers’ unions, may be forced to make up to 500 layoffs next year.

“It’s not a decision I want to make, but it’s one of necessity,” said Redd. “We’re gong to have to lay off people because there is no way we’re able to maintain the staffing levels that we have with the limited funds we’re anticipating to receive.”

Mayor Redd would not discuss specifics regarding what concessions were being asked of the unions, though she did claim that the city was facing a dire financial situation.