LETTER FROM CITY OFFERS SEVERANCE PACKAGE TO DISPATCHERS

by Michael Monks 

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THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

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At the end of regular business hours Friday evening, Covington Police dispatchers were notified that their jobs were being eliminated and that the City of Covington will receive dispatch services from the Kenton County Police Department. Sixteen dispatchers, all members of the American Federation of Federal, State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union received letters explaining their severances. Excerpts:

In order for the city to have a structurally balanced budget and to position itself for future success we have to look at all areas...
(snip)
After much discussion and analysis we have determined that it is in the best interest of the city to no longer provide dispatch services. We have determined that it is feasible to allow Kenton County to provide dispatch servies for Covington. This is the best opportunity to insure continued quality service and safety for our citizens.
(snip)
The city informed the leadership of AFSCME this morning. We also discussed the best way to inform you of this before it became public. (snip)The decision is not a refelction of your individual performance. You have been an asset to the city and the management team is grateful for that. (snip)We have assembled a severance package worth one week's pay for each year worked which we hope will assist you and your family during this difficult period. (snip)We anticipate that the city will crease dispatch operations on or about September 1.

While the possibility of ending Covington's dispatch center has been a topic for several years, the issue has not been raised at any public city commission meetings and is not part of Tuesday's agenda as of Friday. Dispatchers will have the possibility of being hired on at Kenton County but were informed that the county is not currently hiring but when positions do become available preference may be given to Covington employees. 

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This story is developing. Expect updates as soon as possible.