Albuquerque pushes for US$15 wage increase for municipal workers

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – The Albuquerque City Council announced that it is taking the first steps to bring all municipal employees to a wage of at least $15 per hour.

According to local officials, guaranteeing a better wage for entry-level positions is critical to the city’s ongoing effort to retain and attract workers in key areas. The $15 wage will apply to all regular, seasonal and part-time city employees, with the likely exemption for contracted temps.

“City staff keep Albuquerque running, plain and simple. It is our responsibility to make sure we are taking the necessary steps to support our workforce and set people up for success,” said Mayor Tim Keller.

“We continue to do what is necessary to support our workforce and also to ensure that the City can fill critical functions as governments and businesses across the country face staffing challenges,” said Patricia Tafoya-Harris, Deputy Director of Human Resources.

“We have made fiscal responsibility a priority over the years so that we can make important investments that help the City operate at its best,” said Lawrence Davis, Budget Officer.

As part of a series of next steps, the City is conducting a compensation study, as called for in this year’s budget, which will then guide salary adjustments for municipal positions. The issue of salary compression and collective bargaining agreements is also being investigated. The changes are expected to be phased in beginning in fiscal year 2023.

Source: MEXICONOW Staff