Letter to Employees

09/27/04

To all city employees:

This afternoon, I will present my budget to the City Council. I want to give you an overview and let you know where we’re headed.

As you know, the last couple of years were the longest and deepest recession in a generation. They challenged us to change the way the city does business, and we did. We reorganized departments and duties. We balanced the books. Including the new budget, we’ve reduced spending by $120 million while protecting basic services and laying the foundation for a stronger City government.

The good news is that our approach is working. Our city is better off than it was three years ago, and our economy shows signs of recovery. Throughout the next budget year, we are going to stay focused on the priorities that we all share, and on finding new and innovative ways to serve the public.

I know this has been difficult for employees and your families. I appreciate the fact that we have worked through this together. You have done an amazing job of doing more with less, suggesting creative approaches to problems and developing strategies so departments work more effectively together. I see the results of your work. I see it when I visit your offices and work places. I see it in my own neighborhood and in neighborhoods across Seattle. People tell me how much they appreciate what you do. Your service is a big reason why the people of Seattle love their community.

I am hopeful this will be the last round of significant reductions. City revenues seem to be stabilizing and, in my proposed budget, we did not have to cut direct services.

• No uniformed police officers or fire fighters will be cut.
• No direct services for the hungry and the needy will be cut.
• No library hours will be cut and there won’t be any closures this year.
• Investments in our neighborhoods will grow.

Thank you all for your sacrifices, your creativity and dedication, and most of all, your hard work.

Sincerely,

GREG NICKELS
Mayor of Seattle