Dear County Employees,
As you are aware, our nation is facing challenging financial times currently and in the
days ahead. You may have read different media reports describing how major
corporations and local governments are suffering. Many of these entities are faced with
hiring freezes, having to reduce services, and in some cases mass layoffs. Unfortunately,
these tough times have not spared St. Louis County.
When I submitted the 2009 budget, I included a 3% raise for County employees. This
decision was made several months ago when our economic situation was not as critical as
it is now. County revenues are not increasing the way we had predicted. Because of our
current revenue stream, tough decisions must be made now. In order to preserve present
levels of service and in an attempt to prevent layoffs in 2009, I have decided to freeze the
wages for County employees in 2009. I know that many of you will be disappointed and
would have benefited greatly from a raise, but I hope that you will understand the dire
situation we all find ourselves in at this time. I would like nothing better than to reward
our wonderful employees with a wage increase, but I believe this sacrifice will help us
avoid mass layoffs.
I cannot guarantee that a wage freeze is going to solve our financial issues, but I believe
that it is the most prudent course we can take at this time. Please know that I appreciate
everything you do for St. Louis County government and the citizens who live and work
here. I know I can count on you to continue to provide excellent services to our residents.
Sincerely,
Charlie A. Dooley
County Executive