Gwinnett County will not be hiring to fill vacant positions as the County government deals with decreasing revenues and increasing expenses. The hiring freeze, that would save about $4.5 million over 12 months, will last until further notice with continuous reviews of its impact.

All departments reporting to the County Administrator were informed of the decision last week in a letter from Jock Connell. Sworn public safety officers will still be recruited in order to maintain and strengthen public safety throughout the county, and job offers that have already been extended will not be cancelled.

“Over the past year, revenues have been flat, but of even greater concern, expenses are up about eight percent,” said Board Chairman Charles Bannister. “I’ve directed staff to take proactive measures now to avoid any later reductions in essential services.”

Connell said the temporary freeze affects vacant, non-sworn full-time, part-time and temporary positions. “When you cannot control the rising costs of the fuel, asphalt and other items essential to the operation of your business, you have to find other adjustments that can have an immediate balancing impact,” he said. “We will continue to assess our situation and make further modifications as conditions warrant.”