County workers demand pay equity as legislators face backlash over vetoed raises

Frustration over pay inequities for Ulster County workers dominated the December 19, 2024, Special Legislative Session, as public comments revealed deep concerns about the financial struggles faced by county employees. Speakers highlighted the disparity in wages, particularly for Department of Public Works (DPW) workers, who have not seen raises while managing increasing living costs.

One speaker, a long-time county employee, expressed disbelief that after 30 years of service, his paycheck still falls short of covering basic expenses. "My bills are $2,000, and my paycheck is $1,500," he lamented, emphasizing the struggle many workers face to make ends meet. Another speaker echoed this sentiment, stating that it is "literally impossible" for single-income households to survive on current wages.

Legislators acknowledged the public's concerns, with some expressing disappointment over the lack of attendance from their colleagues. Only nine legislators were present, preventing a quorum needed to address the veto of a budget amendment aimed at rectifying pay disparities among union members. Legislator Litz noted the unusual situation where only part of a union received raises, calling it "the first time I've ever heard of this."

The meeting also revealed tensions between the legislative body and the county executive, with accusations of political maneuvering and a lack of transparency in negotiations. Legislator Nolan stressed the importance of adhering to legal mechanisms for salary adjustments, while others criticized the executive's handling of the situation, suggesting that the process has been marred by conflicts of interest.

As the session concluded, the urgency for equitable pay and the need for effective negotiations were clear. Legislators and community members alike called for a commitment to ensure that all county workers receive fair compensation, highlighting the broader implications of these discussions for the future of labor relations in Ulster County.