Jefferson County makes plans for possible 700 layoffs (B'ham News)

[eppur_se_muova]

By Barnett Wright -- The Birmingham News

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Jefferson County officials will make plans this week to lay off up to 697 employees from every department to help reduce the general fund budget by approximately $12.3 million.

Commissioner Jimmie Stephens said the finance committee on Tuesday will discuss the proposed layoffs and other steps to reduce the fiscal 2011 general fund budget which is being depleted by the loss of occupational tax revenue.

"These steps are the beginning of a new era ... a reduced level of services for the citizens of Jefferson County," said Stephens, who has responsibility for the county's finances. "We cannot generate any revenue. All we can do is balance the budget within the constraints of the revenue that we have. With less revenue we have no choice" but to begin reducing services.

The commission could call a special meeting as soon as Friday to begin notice of the layoffs, Stephens said.

The proposed reductions include up to 282 employees in the roads department; 156 in the general services department; 148 in the sheriff's office and 61 in the revenue, finance and budget management departments, according to county figures.
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more: http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2011/06/jefferson_county_makes_plans_f.html




While this is mostly connected to the occupational tax, obviously the Great Recession is making things worse -- and this will affect people trying to recover from tornado damage.