The Courier-News recently published a story highlighting how Carpentersville managed to save two firefighters from being laid off, thanks to a collaborative effort between local officials and the union representing Firefighters Local 4790.
Due to a $400,000 budget shortfall, the village had initially planned to cut two full-time firefighters and three civilian positions. Additionally, four part-time roles across different departments were also at risk. However, after the union learned of these potential layoffs, they stepped in to negotiate a solution that would preserve jobs while still addressing financial constraints.
The resulting agreement involved adjusting work schedules and designating "swing shift" employees who would not be on regular 24-hour shifts but would instead cover for others during time off or vacations. This change eliminated the need for overtime pay for firefighters filling those gaps, saving the village an estimated $85,000 annually.
Village Manager Mark Rooney emphasized that cutting staff is always a last resort. He noted that if the new schedule proves effective, no additional full-time firefighters will be laid off during the current collective bargaining agreement, which runs until 2016.
In response, the union withdrew a grievance it had filed over the proposed layoffs. Lt. Rick Nieves, president of the fire fighters' union, acknowledged the ongoing challenges but expressed relief that the situation was resolved for now. “We used to have 13 firefighters on duty every day, and now we’re down to 10 on certain days,†he said. “So there’s still work to do, but we’re here and we’ll keep moving forward.â€
This agreement follows years of restructuring and reductions. In 2010, the village had 207 full-time employees. Through reorganization, layoffs, and not filling open positions, that number has dropped to 175 today. Personnel and labor costs make up about 70% of the village's total expenses, according to Rooney.
Thanks, Dan.
Manganese-silicon alloy is a kind of alloy composed of manganese, silicon, iron and small amount of carbon and other elements. It`s a widely-used and productive ferroalloy.
Silicon Maganese,Silicon Maganese Fesimn,Ferrosilicon Fesi Low Carbon,Ferro Manganese Simn
ANYANG GUOQI SILICON INDUSTRY CO.,LTD , https://www.siliconxg.com