Many ASPTEA members have been wondering what is going on with the budget cuts?  During the last few weeks a lot of discussions have been taking place behind the scenes. All the labor groups have been meeting to talk about remedies and solutions to the potential layoffs and work force reductions. The fact of the matter is, there are NO fail safe remedies. What people really need to do is stop reacting and becoming afraid. All the groups are very concerned with any person leaving the organization. There are realities that may not work out. What we are focusing on is minimizing the impact and not hurting people.

On February 3, 2010 we held a Members Only Annual General Membership Meeting. At this meeting we provided an overview of what has been going on and what ideas are being discussed. Jumping to conclusions that giving back your pay or taking furloughs are the only solutions is not completely true. What we need to do is carefully consider each recommendation and determine the impact. Since we have the largest employee group in the City, we need to consider each suggestion and make sure we don’t hurt another group or vice versa.

We expect that there will be people who will not be happy whatever conclusion we arrive at, but generally those individuals do not have the whole picture. This is situation is historical and many of the solutions could possible change our thought process for ever. I know that many employees are long time dedicated people, who have put in their time and knowledge to make the City what it is today. With this strength and dedication, I expect our members to come together and stay strong and not be subjected to rumor or speculations.
I have always been committed to the making sure that all members are heard and your ideas are being considered. Like I said, not everyone is going to be happy with our conclusions. But please know the ASPTEA is analyzing this situation from all perspectives and working toward the best solutions for everyone.   Once again, lets continue to work together and keep each other informed. To strengthen our presence I encourage nonmember's to join ASPTEA, and will be hosting the first ever Nonmember meeting for updates. Stay tuned! 

Many people have been asking is the Furlough program still okay. The answer is yes, and anyone who wishes to take a furlough day they can!  Most of us know that the budget situation is getting serious and furloughs is one way people can help in closing the gap in our financial short falls.  As the New Year begins people who are interested in taking some furlough days should let their supervisor know.  Everyone needs to know that the program is VOLUNTEER at this time. Should any Department heads force staff to participate in this Volunteer program, such tactics needs to be reported to ASPTEA.

Taking a day or more is not an easy task but one that can help the budget situation. If anyone needs help in taking a Furlough day feel free to contact the ASPTEA office.

This is a critical time in our city's budget.  As I have mentioned before, we have unprecedented challenges ahead of us. However, I continue to be confident that we will work together to provide solutions.

In fact, many of you already have demonstrated how you can help.  It's simple.  By taking one unpaid furlough day, you can help save the city money.  Thus far, we've had 900 employees participate in voluntary furloughs resulting in more than 25,000 hours. That translates into three-quarters of a million dollars.  This level of leadership, caring and generosity has saved fellow employees jobs and has allowed important services to continue in our community.  For those who have participated in this, I thank you for making a difference.

At this time, I am extending the voluntary furlough program through Dec. 31, 2010.  Please consider taking a voluntary furlough day and join the 900 employees who have led the way in making a difference. I already have scheduled a voluntary day next Wednesday.  Don't forget, we can't do this alone.  Each and every one of you can make a difference.  The solution to our budget challenge lies in working together.

Thank you for all you do to make Phoenix great!

-- David Cavazos

BUDGET CUTS AGAIN?

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