Letter to City Employees from Mayor Stimpson

Dec 30th, 2013

Dear City of Mobile Employees,

Since taking office, I have been committed to understanding the true state of our City's financial well-being. Over the last several weeks, we have been working, and will continue to work, with our external audit team. We have come to the conclusion that we have been living beyond our means and corrective action is needed immediately to avoid unintended financial consequences.

As city employees, you work tirelessly, day in and day out, to provide the citizens of Mobile the critical services they deserve. I am grateful for your hard work and steadfast commitment to serving our beloved city. I truly believe that with the right leadership actions, results-producing initiatives and public-private partnerships, we will become the safest, most business and family-friendly city in America by 2020.

The previous administration budgeted a 2.5% pay raise to go into effect on January 1, 2014. Unfortunately, at this time, I cannot authorize the pay raise due to critical budget shortfalls that must be addressed.

Further, I commit to you that I will do all in my power to fix our city finances and, as I've always said, no one deserves a raise more than you. When the money is there, the pay raise will come.

I ask for your partnership as we enter the New Year, because the work we must do to move the City of Mobile from good to great can only be accomplished if we work together.

I am humbled and honored to be your Mayor. Thanks again for all you do.


Sincerely,

William S. Stimpson
Mayor