The south suburb of Calumet City laid off dozens of employees on Friday, with the mayor citing financial challenges.
Mayor Thaddeus Jones said in a video posted on social media that 46 non-essential employees were temporarily laid off – effective immediately.
“This is a decision I didn’t come to lightly, but a decision that’s rooted in the city council not only voting for a hiring freeze but discussing the layoffs two months ago,” he said.
Jones explained the budget shortfall, saying the community’s tax revenues from Cook County were late, and additional revenue streams haven’t reached expectations. He insisted there are no plans to raise taxes or lay off additional employees – and essential services will continue. The city’s fire and police departments weren’t affected.
The mayor expressed hope the laid-off employees would be brought back when the financial situation improves.
“Our city has to be stable so we can bring in economic development and our city has to be stable so we can look toward the future of Calumet City,” he said.
