ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Mayor Tim Keller’s administration sent out an email Friday telling non-union city workers they were required to spend two hours of their work time picking up trash. That didn’t sit well with some employees including another email that went out stating not to post about it on social media.
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In an email sent out last Friday that KRQE News 13 obtained, the city stated that unclassified and clerical workers will be required to sign up for a two-hour paid clean-up shift during their regular work time. That includes about 1,000 workers from many different departments including Parks and Recreation, Animal Welfare, Economic Development, and even the Mayor’s Office.
That had some city workers reaching out to KRQE News 13 angry they were being forced to help. They didn’t want go on camera because of fear of retaliation. The city’s Chief Administrative Officer Samantha Sengel said during Balloon Fiesta, the city needs to be focused on keeping the city pretty. “It’s hard for me to imagine anybody would be frustrated with the idea that if we all come together and pitch in we can make a difference,” said Sengel.