Would the teachers consider a one-year wage freeze to save
jobs?
When it comes to the Gilroy Unified School District budget,
there’s pain ahead and there’s simply no way to get around it.
Would the teachers consider a one-year wage freeze to save jobs?
When it comes to the Gilroy Unified School District budget, there’s pain ahead and there’s simply no way to get around it.
Superintendent Deborah Flores has asked for expense reduction ideas from board members and staff. The list, hopefully, will be broad and deep. There should not be any sacred cows when the district is trying to carve 10 percent savings from a $50 million general fund budget.
At or near the top should be a serious discussion with the unions regarding a one-year wage freeze that could preserve jobs. There is precedent. A number of years ago Santa Clara County sheriff’s deputies voluntarily agreed to such an arrangement “for the good of the whole.” Perhaps teachers would do likewise.
After employee salary and benefit costs, the wiggle room is slim
There isn’t a whole lot of wiggle room for GUSD. Employee salaries and benefits make up 79 percent of the district’s total general fund budget and it climbs to 92 percent when unrestricted general fund (day-to-day operational funds) money is used in the ratio.
One of the larger ticket savings could involve an early retirement incentive plan. Longtime teachers, due to step-and-column increases, cost the district more and a substantial savings could be realized in turning those positions over a year or two earlier than expected.
Beyond that is transportation. Though charging for bus services isn’t the most attractive option, it might be necessary.
Taking a look at outsourcing could save GUSD considerable sums
Then, there are internal “audits” which should be conducted with regards to outsourcing opportunities. Could the district save on landscaping and maintenance by contracting with private firms? It has worked, to a large degree, with food service. There could even be a phased-in plan that could allow for a smooth transition.
Then, there’s always attendance. More students in the seats mean more money from the state. Are we doing everything we can in a positive way consistently?
Two other – more obvious – areas should be looked at for immediate cuts: travel expenses and IT services.
This is an unpleasant job for everyone. Layoff notices will be going out in March for teachers and there’s just no easy solution. The sooner
Act now:
Send an e-mail with your cost saving idea to Superintendent Debbie Flores at
De***********@gu**.us
.
