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Layoffs coming to Carpentersville
The Daily Herald recently published an article discussing a budget shortfall in Carpentersville, which has led to several layoffs and cost-cutting measures. The village is facing a projected $400,000 deficit, prompting officials to announce sweeping changes across departments.
Village Manager J. Mark Rooney revealed that the plan includes laying off two full-time firefighters, a part-time records clerk in the police department, a community service officer, and a part-time ambulance billing clerk in the fire department. This decision comes as the first round of layoffs since 2011, marking a significant shift for the community.
Rooney emphasized that these cuts are temporary and could be reversed depending on the state's financial condition and local sales tax trends. There's even a possibility that the two affected firefighters may be rehired if a federal grant is approved for additional personnel. The village is currently updating its application to request two more firefighters and funding to retain the current ones.
Firefighters' union leader Lt. Rick Nieves from Local 4790 expressed concern, stating that the union will fight to keep the employees on board. He also mentioned that the two firefighters being laid off are the least senior out of 32, with their last day set for March 28.
In addition to the layoffs, three part-time roles in finance, IT, and fire departments will remain unfilled. Code enforcement officers will be cross-trained to cover community service positions, creating a hybrid role between departments.
The village estimates it will save between $235,000 and $245,000 from these actions, with further savings expected in the future. Declining property values, economic challenges, and rising union contract costs have contributed to the financial strain.
This move follows recent negotiations between the village and full-time firefighters over staffing levels at the three fire stations. Nieves said the union was caught off guard by the layoffs, especially after resolving a contract dispute just two months ago.
Rooney explained that the union had opportunities during negotiations to prevent the layoffs but chose to prioritize lieutenant pay over junior members. Nieves, however, believes the contract language should have offered more protection.
Despite the changes, Rooney insists that public safety will not be compromised, citing existing staffing levels, mutual aid agreements, and flexibility in using part-time staff. The situation remains under review, with ongoing discussions scheduled for March 7 to address concerns about the impact on the fire department.
Thanks, Dan.