The city government voted 7-4 in favour of proceeding with the layoffs. It also approved an extensive savings plan.
The furloughs are expected to save the city four million euros. According to preliminary reports in January, Kemi is exceeding its budget by nine million euros.
Employee unions are opposed to the decision. They say workers should not have to pay for the city's lousy financial situation.
Meanwhile Jyri J. Taskila, head physician at Kemi's open door health care clinic, said he's concerned the temporary layoffs will place additional pressure on healthcare services. He said the threat of being temporarily laid off already resulted in a spike in sick leave.
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