After 105 layoffs already, King County Washington will cut an additional 255 county jobs today, with further cuts possible next June. The losses come as budget deficits continue to increase amid rising costs and falling tax revenue, forcing County Executive Ron Sims to enact service cuts in his 2009 budget proposal. Downsizing and cost cuts are set to effect sheriffs' offices, courts, and public health programs. To maintain certain programs, the county may need to ask the state Legislature for help. Sims' proposal received heavy criticism, with opponents claiming his budget is not balanced. Union supporters in particular denounced the plan, citing Sims' request for union wage concessions.
See "King County to lay off up to 255 more workers", Keith Ervin, The Seattle Times, October 13, 2008