Despite the pandemic and other financial challenges, Moline will not lay off any employees next year. That was the promise in a resolution approved by the city council Tuesday night.
Mayor Stephanie Acri says even before COVID-19, city leaders were studying ways to deliver services better and save money. Then the pandemic came along and probably added to stress among city workers already worried about their jobs. So she wants to tell them don't worry.
"We have enough positions and enough ability to train employees that we can accomodate that and re-assure our current staff that there's a place for them in Moline. It might be a litle bit outside of their comfort zone and there might be additional training involved, but we can find a place for them."
The resolution says, "for the fiscal year 2021, the Mayor and City Council are committed to keeping all of its current employees so that in those instances where a position is eliminated, an alternative position will be offered, thus avoiding forced layoff or terminations."
Moline currently has 334 full-time employees.
Mayor Acri says she and the city council have also promised not to raise taxes next year.
