County proposes $15 minimum wage increase affecting 88 employees

In a recent Lancaster County Council special meeting, officials discussed a proposed budget that aims to increase the minimum wage for county employees to $15 an hour without raising taxes. The budget plan allocates $6.9 million for various operating expenditures, utilizing growth funds rather than the full $8 million available.

Key discussions centered on the implications of raising the minimum wage. Council members expressed concerns about wage compaction, which occurs when the pay gap between different tiers of employees narrows, potentially leading to dissatisfaction among higher-paid staff. An analysis was conducted to assess how many employees currently earn between $15 and $16 an hour, with initial findings suggesting that only a small number fall within this range. This indicates that significant compaction issues may not arise, although further examination is planned to ensure comprehensive understanding.

Additionally, the council addressed the operational hours of solid waste stations, noting that extending these hours was not included in the current budget recommendation. This topic will be revisited in future discussions, highlighting ongoing community needs for improved waste management services.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing employee wages while carefully managing budgetary constraints. As discussions continue, the council aims to balance employee compensation with the financial health of the county, ensuring that all potential impacts are thoroughly evaluated before final decisions are made.