More than 400 public service workers represented by SEIU 721 and the Coalition of LA City Unions laid out a devastating future at City Hall today in response to Council’s surprise vote last week for up to 4,000 layoffs that would severely hurt city services.
LA City workers posed a critical question inside City Council Chambers, “what would happen to our libraries, classrooms and parks if 4,000 workers disappeared?”
“When we close our parks, it means children won’t have a place to play. Why can’t we contract-in services to generate additional revenue to save our parks?” – Sheree Powers, Recreation and Parks Senior Gardener, Elysian Park
“We’re the first responders at Griffith Park for medical emergencies. What will happen if we’re not there?”
– Adam Dedeaux, a Park Ranger at Griffith Park
City workers who prosecute domestic violence cases, keep parks clean and safe, and respond to mudslides, windstorms and other emergencies detailed a grim future.
• Librarians and staff who keep libraries open and run children’s reading programs. Some branch libraries may have to close.
• Mechanics who keep emergency vehicles running and professionals who support fire and police services, meaning longer response times in emergencies.
• Park workers who run programs that keep children off the street and out of gangs, and who make sure park grounds are safe.
• Animal Services employees who investigate reports of dangerous animals, who could harm pedestrians and children. They educate the public about their pets and collect more than $249,000 in licensing fees. Without them, the city loses money and the ability to respond to dangerous animals.
• Emergency-response tree trimmers who clear downed trees for paramedics and fire crews will be at risk.
If you are a city worker, let us know how the community would be impacted without your services. We’ll collect your stories and continue to press Council for real leadership not threats to services.