Some union workers for Rock Island County have decided to help the county deal with its very serious financial situation. They've agreed to a two-year wage freeze, and to give up one paid holiday.
Wednesday afternoon, county administrator Dave Ross announced agreements with members of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees union, and the Fraternal Order of Police, affecting 265 employees, or about half of the county's unionized workforce.
Ross says they include clerks, correctional officers, sworn members of the Sheriff's Department, and probation officers.
Previously approved separate holidays for Lincoln's Birthday and Washington's Birthday will become one paid day off, President's Day.
He hopes soon the other unions will agree to these concessions, and similar changes are in store for non-represented county employees.
