Info session on furloughs draws large turnout

An estimated 150 UW-Green Bay employees showed up for an information session Wednesday (July 15) concerning implementation of state-mandated furloughs during the 2009-11 biennium.

The 60-minute gathering in the Union’s Phoenix Room included questions and answers, a PowerPoint overview by Human Resources Director Sheryl Van Gruensven, and brief remarks by Chancellor Thomas Harden. The chancellor told faculty and staff members in attendance that while the mandatory days off and accompanying 3.065 percent pay reductions are unfortunate, the pain is being felt statewide and beyond, and across the public sector, with Wisconsin one of at least 20 states ordering employee furloughs.

The impact at UW-Green Bay is complicated and varies slightly across employee categories, union vs. non-union status, and salary vs. hourly workers but, in general, employees will be required to take eight unpaid furlough days in both Fiscal Year 2010 (the period that started July 1) and FY11. Further questions should be directed to the Human Resources office at ext. 2390. Or, for a UW System overview, try http://www.uwsa.edu/furloughs