CLEARFIELD – Clearfield County has temporarily laid off some part-time employees, and more layoffs are possible amid the COVID-19 public health crisis.
The announcement was made by Commissioner Dave Glass “in the interest of transparency” at the end of Tuesday’s commissioners’ meeting.
“Finances are an issue for everyone,” he said, “and it’s no different for Clearfield County.” He said that additional layoffs will remain a topic of discussion for the commissioners.
In a text-message following the meeting, which was streamed live on YouTube, Commissioner John A. Sobel said the county isn’t releasing layoff figures at this time but would at the conclusion of the process.
There are two primary reasons for the layoffs, according to Glass, with the first and foremost being the safety of all county employees.
“We are trying to increase separation and reduce the number of people in our buildings,” he said. The second reason is that the commissioners anticipate “real budgetary” issues.
“… Every dollar we can save now can hopefully be used later this summer or fall when we get back to full business. We’re going to be overwhelmed …”
Glass continued, emphasizing that: “This isn’t intended to be permanent. As soon as this crisis ends, the county intends to be back – full steam ahead.”
Sobel said the decision, to temporarily layoff employees, hinges upon orders from Gov. Tom Wolf and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
He said the commonwealth’s Supreme Court has temporarily imposed restrictions on courts, and there’s been a spillover effect at the county level.
Sobel said as soon as it’s possible, these restrictions will be lifted, and county court will get busy – quick. “And we’re going to need everyone.”
Commissioner Chairman Tony Scotto said all three commissioners concurred layoffs were necessary, and reiterated that “rest assured, this is only temporary.”