1% COLA Rollback Off the Table

I wanted to provide an update regarding some good news that UPEA has been working toward. I met with Mayor Corroon this afternoon, and in our meeting he committed to withdrawing his proposal to rollback the 1% COLA for the remainder of 2009. So, depending on the Council, the proposal is currently off of the table for this year.

Although there is good news, we have a battle ahead of us. The Mayor, however, did mention that 2010 does not look very good. So, there is much work to be done. The current Point of Sales tax revenues are down 50% so far this year (from $18 million to $9 million). Mayor Corroon mentioned that they are looking at all avenues in regards to potential budget cuts. One of the options that they are exploring is another early retirement option. The Mayor’s Office mentioned that they are open to ideas and possible opportunities for incentivizing individuals to take advantage of the option. So, if you have any suggestions besides the 75% sick leave buyout, please let me know.

In the meeting UPEA staff talked about looking at opportunities to appreciate and help employees progress through these tough times. We offered the following suggestions to encourage better morale and career development:

1. Hold appreciation days in July and August. UPEA is holding a few appreciation days in July and August to thank the employees for their hard work and dedication to public service in Salt Lake County.
2. Public Employee Salute. UPEA has a recognition program in place to recognize the hard work of public employees that have gone above and beyond the call of duty. The award is given out weekly to an outstanding public employee.
3. Workshops. UPEA has a list of several speakers that can present on Delegate/Political Training, Earthquake Preparedness, Health Insurance (PEHP), Documenting Employment, Preventing Discrimination (UALD), Personal Finance, Wills and Trust, Identity Theft Prevention, Planning for Retirement, Saving Energy, Veteran’s Issues, Vacation Planning, Winter/Summer Weatherization, Collectible, Antique and Currency Appraisals and Presentations, and Gardening.
4. Institution of an informal mentoring program. UPEA has prepared some materials to show how mentoring can be beneficial to public employment. Employees within the county would choose a mentor outside their normal reporting relationship to help them set and accomplish goals, talk about difficult job situations, and accelerate growth and learning.
5. Continuation of the Salt Lake County Annual Longevity Luncheon. UPEA is prepared to recognize the employees that have served the County for 25 years or more.
6. Mini-courses. This would include enhanced training and career pathing to prepare employees for stepping into opportunities when times get better. This can be done with current resources using current trainers. This is important for morale to give employees a sense of accomplishment and a feeling there is hope at the end of the tunnel.

The Mayor was open to these suggestions, and willing to work with us. He committed to meeting with UPEA bi-monthly to discuss concerns that UPEA members may have.