Councilmember Godden stands with city employees;
will take furlough in 2010
"As we face an ever deepening budget gap this year and next, the majority of the city’s represented employees have voted to take 10 days of unpaid leave in 2010. This is welcome news since it means that, in these difficult economic times, there will need to be far fewer layoffs at the city.
By their willingness to accept furloughs, union members and non-represented city employees have displayed a commendable loyalty to their fellow workers, to the city and to the citizens of Seattle. They are public servants in the best sense of the phrase.
I have decided that I want to participate fully with other city employees and have agreed to take an equivalent reduction in pay. Since, by law, I cannot have my salary reduced or increased while serving an elected term, I will write a check for $5,034.39, representing 10 days of wages, plus the city’s share of Social Security, Medicare and Retirement back to the City.
Last month I asked the Legislative Department’s finance manager to undertake the necessary paperwork to help me with this action." |
