What’s been termed “restructuring” has led to the laying off of a multitude of City of Grande Prairie employees. Staff confirmed late Tuesday afternoon that more than 40 positions had been reduced, although it’s unclear by what method and at what levels.
The cuts come one day after Grande Prairie city council approved its 2020 Operating and Capital Budgets. Roughly $6 million had to be slashed in order to reach a residential property tax increase of 1.25 per cent.
“We would like to recognize the City employees and their families who have been impacted by this week’s restructuring,” the City said in a Tweet. “There is never an easy time for management to make these decisions.”
The City explains that significant downsizing is needed to “ensure the City’s long-term ability to deliver high quality services to the community.” It also notes that transitional support is being given to the affected employees.
MyGrandePrairieNow.com reached out to the City for comment earlier Tuesday.