Forest Preserve District to forgo pay raises
Recently, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s Board of Commissioners opted not to release budgeted 1 percent raises for employees.

This certainly does not reflect their performance; DuPage County has the best such district in the nation.

Simply put, we are in tough economic times and this action is a cost-saving measure.
As a nation, we face a nearly 10 percent unemployment rate.

I have previously expressed to district staff that no layoffs will be necessary because of economy, and that remains true.

The district will remain strong financially.

The district’s budgeting and money-management is carried out very carefully, and the agency is not facing shortfalls.

We will continue to offer employment benefits and support the staff.

However, as a fiscally conservative agency, the district remains committed to serving the people of DuPage County in the most effective and efficient manner possible.

I want to personally thank the district’s staff for their tremendous efforts.

I appreciate all you do and trust the economy will turn around and better times are to follow.

In the meantime, staff members and DuPage County residents should know that district will remain solvent and financially sound.

The district’s 25,000 acres of open space will continue to offer respite from today’s hectic life, and cultural and educational centers will continue to offer programs and events for all to enjoy.

D. “Dewey” Pierotti Jr., president, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County