Sudbury union sounds alarm over feared city layoffs

A Sudbury union representing about 1,600 city workers is expressing concern over potential layoffs — and there is concern that job losses could be coming as early as Tuesday at a city council meeting.

CUPE Local 4705 president Darryl Taylor said he's especially worried after two cemetery workers were suddenly laid off last week. He said he plans to file grievances over the dismissals because the city failed to provide 90 days notice, as he said has been negotiated in the workers' collective bargaining agreement. 

Taylor said he has reason to believe more cuts are on the way, possibly on Tuesday night.

• City workers concerned about lack of say on budget-cutting ideas
• Workers fear job losses in wake of proposed spending cuts

"And it will only be a matter of time before the public feels the brunt of cuts when they come," Taylor said, adding he suspects the city is approving these layoffs.

"Obviously, it's been occurring in closed sessions," the union leader speculated.

Sudbury's interim chief administrative officer, Kevin Fowke, said the city doesn't vote on layoffs, but admits they are trying to save money. With nearly half of all city expenditures tied to salary, he said job losses may be necessary.

Fowke added the city is also considering retirement options for some positions without refilling them as a means to save money. 

A finance and administration committee meeting is set to commence Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Tom Davies Square.