AFSCME Local 195 and CSEA Local 806 unite against Auburn layoffs

Auburn Faces Union Pushback Amid Looming Budget Cuts

In Auburn, New York, a significant demonstration unfolded as members of AFSCME Local 195, representing local police officers, and CSEA Local 806 gathered to oppose potential layoffs. The unions are rallying against the city's proposed reductions in public services, which are a response to a daunting $5 million budget shortfall.

The proposed layoffs could impact dozens of city workers, including seven police officers. Union members, alongside community supporters, are actively voicing their concerns about how these cuts could affect the safety and well-being of Auburn’s residents.

"There needs to be law and order," stated Auburn Police Officer Michael Bufano, president of Auburn Police Union Local 195, in an interview with WSYR-TV. "If there’s not any law and order, the city will not thrive."

Police officers in Auburn have been credited with a 33% reduction in violent crime between 2020 and 2024, as noted by Local 195. These officers, who reside in Auburn, attended a packed city council meeting to address the potential job losses, each donning the names of colleagues at risk of losing their jobs.

CSEA Local 806 members, employed in both white-collar and blue-collar roles, are also mobilizing against the proposed cuts. CSEA is part of the AFSCME family, further emphasizing the unity among city workers.

Chris Maywalt, a city employee and president of CSEA Local 806, expressed his concerns to WSYR-TV, saying, "I’ve been with the city for 27 years, and throughout the years I’ve watched a lot of jobs come and go. We’re basically at bare bones now."

There is a growing sentiment that the community cannot afford further erosion of essential public services. In a bid to amplify their cause, union leaders are encouraging more voices to join the movement. Supporters can sign petitions to back the efforts to safeguard vital city jobs and maintain public safety through this link and this link.