Nuclear Meltdown

There is devastating news coming out of the Savannah River Site. Some weeks ago, the Augusta Chronicle detailed upcoming layoffs at SRS. Those cuts have begun. The report from the Augusta Chronicle seems to have been understated. The information I hear from those who work at the SRS is troubling, concerning, and sad.

The SRS is now in the process of cutting some 700 employees from their payrolls who make between $50,000 to $150,000 a year. Many of these employees are in their fifties and fall just short of years needed to receive full retirement benefits. Many have worked at the SRS all of their lives as faithful employees who have risen through the ranks without a formal education. These are the faces of those losing their jobs. The reduction of benefits can amount to a %40 decrease of current income. Tension at the SRS is severe, with folks literally waiting for a knock on the door, a tap on the shoulder, and a drive home.

The economic impact and outlook for our area is concerning at the least, and perhaps horrific. Our region simply lacks the ability to absorb 700 new workers with middle to upper income salaries into our workforce. Less money will flow through our regional economy. It's not a jump to conclude that housing prices will also fall. The financial calamity at SRS will affect us all.

Yet of greater concern is the human carnage. 700 individuals and possible families are being thrown into financial choas and even ruin. It would not surprise me to see an increase in suicides. Fortunatley, no one from this parish who works at the SRS is in danger of losing their job, but all are going through a difficult period. This is a very sad time for the CRSA.

They need our expressions of concern and prayer. Please keep them in your prayers, and feel free to post comments and corrections to my weblog.