GAC09001
March 6, 2009

Executive Committee announces furloughs; 2010 salary increases eliminated

For more information, contact Susan Lindsey at (502) 569-5060.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — General Assembly Council (GAC) staff members at the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) national offices were told today that they will have an unpaid one-week furlough May 17-23. The decision was made by the GAC Executive Committee during a conference call this week.

Later this month, the General Assembly Council will review additional steps required to revise the 2009 budget as a result of the fragile U.S. economy, but these steps were taken now in order to give employees adequate time to plan their personal finances.

The timing was carefully considered: in May, GAC staff members receive three paychecks rather than the usual two. By scheduling the furlough in May, employees may find it easier to manage household budgets. In addition, the furlough is scheduled the week before the Memorial Day holiday, so employees will have a total of 10 sequential days off. The Presbyterian Center, at 100 Witherspoon St., will remain open to accommodate other employees of Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), A Corporation, and building tenants.

GAC staff members were asked to contribute ideas for budget solutions and a furlough was one of the most frequently submitted suggestions.

In another decision, planned salary increases for 2010 will be eliminated. This idea was also frequently suggested by employees.

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) serves about 2.2 million members in mission and ministry in approximately 10,800 congregations throughout the United States and around the world. PC(USA) employs more than 400 people in the Kentuckiana area.