City council member questions pay cuts

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - It's a budget battle in the city of Mobile. Due to huge budget shortfalls, salaries of city workers could be cut between five and fifteen percent. Many who work with the city are protesting and at least one city council member is in disbelief.

Mobile city workers are standing up and speaking out. The latest rally was Monday afternoon with employees of Mobile Public Works. When news broke that salaries could be cut, the disclosure shocked even those who are supposed to be "in the know".

"Never was this ever discussed by the mayor's office with the city council members. I'm very disappointed that we're halfway into this fiscal year and we find ourselves in this crisis," said Connie Hudson.

Hudson represents District 6. She said back in September when the mayor first introduced the budget, there were areas where she disagreed. She said she told the mayor the numbers were unrealistic but she said the mayor reassured her.

"The mayor said I think the numbers are realistic. I'm comfortable and if there is a need for adjustment, we'll adjust," Hudson said.

Hudson said now it's the employees who will have to suffer. She believes there are other avenues to take besides cutting salaries.

Mayor Jones said he welcomes all ideas, but trying to cut $14.4 million from the budget without cutting any salaries isn't easy.

"Very difficult task, never want to reduce someone's salary if you can help it. Nor do you want to cut to bare bones and that's where we are right now," said Jones.

The mayor said it's taken three months to try to balance the budget, and all avenues besides cutting salaries have been considered.

The city council is expected to vote on the pay cuts at Tuesday's meeting.