In just a few weeks, many Denver city workers may receive layoff notices—and they still don’t know how those decisions will be made.
On Tuesday at 9 a.m., the Career Service Board is expected to continue its hours-long meeting to review proposed changes to layoff policies. The new proposal would shift from seniority-based decisions to a merit-based system that emphasizes performance, skills, and other metrics, though years of service will still be considered.
Many employees are frustrated with Mayor Mike Johnston, who has led the city into a $250 million budget shortfall. Workers have voiced concerns about his spending, the layoff process, and recent changes that would prevent them from automatically reclaiming their jobs if they become available again.
Departments could face cuts as high as 20 percent. Despite this, the Johnston administration maintains that the city must keep delivering top-tier services, aiming for greater government efficiency with fewer staff.
Human Resources spokesperson Theresa Marchetta said the changes aim to align the process with a merit-based system and avoid disruptions in service, noting that residents rely on the city to hire the best people.
Dozens of city employees wrote to the Career Service Board criticizing the proposed changes. Some are upset that the rule changes come just months before workers gain the right to unionize. Others say the last-minute shift damages trust and morale.
Tara Nguyen, a senior recruiter with the Office of Human Resources, wrote that the timing of the changes “raises serious concerns about fairness and transparency” and appears tailored to reach a specific outcome rather than improve the system fairly.
City Auditor Tim O’Brien also weighed in, warning the changes could erode employee loyalty and harm government performance by discouraging long-term service.
Many workers argue that eliminating seniority protections punishes those who dedicated their careers to the city. Bobbie Alexander, who has worked in the Office of Social Equity & Innovation for 19 years, said it opens the door to biased decisions and removes an objective, fair standard.
Some employees, including city attorneys, worry the changes could target those who’ve spoken out against leadership. Brian Pinkerton from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure said the changes could expose the city to legal challenges.
Still, a few workers support the move away from seniority. Matt Monaghan of General Services said the old system could cause the city to lose promising young talent needed for future growth.
In response to backlash, officials revised the proposal. In the latest draft, performance, skills, and abilities would count for 10 to 35 percent each, while length of service would carry a 20 percent weight.
Another controversial change: laid-off employees would lose the automatic right to reinstatement and would need to reapply for their old jobs if they reopen.
Layoffs are expected to begin as early as August 1. The goal is to reduce the city’s $200 million budget gap for 2026, in addition to addressing a $50 million shortfall this year.
However, some question the urgency. Councilmember Sarah Parady believes layoffs could be delayed and suspects the timing is tied to the January 1 deadline when new union rights take effect.
City officials argue the layoff process is lengthy and must begin soon. Employees will receive at least 30 days’ notice. Those under 40 have 21 days to review severance agreements; those over 40 get 45 days. Accrued paid time off will be paid after the final paycheck, and employees nearing retirement can stay up to 90 days to qualify.
Layoffs may be rolled out in phases, pending approval from the City Attorney’s Office and Human Resources. Officials maintain that the sooner the layoffs start, the more money the city saves.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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