The Tucson Mayor and City Council meeting held on December 10, 2024, addressed several key issues, primarily focusing on employee compensation, union negotiations, and water rate changes.

The meeting began with public comments from city employees, notably from a member of the Tucson Water Department. He expressed gratitude for recent pay raises but highlighted ongoing concerns regarding compensation fairness, particularly the promised 1.5% cost-of-living increase, which he argued does not keep pace with inflation. He emphasized the financial struggles faced by some coworkers, stating that many qualify for water bill relief due to low wages. His appeal underscored the importance of fair compensation for city workers who perform essential services.

Following this, James Garcia, representing Local 905, urged the council to ratify the union contract, which had reached an impasse requiring mediation. He advocated for the inclusion of the 1.5% wage increase in the contract, stressing the need for fair wages, especially in light of the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic when city workers continued to perform their duties without the option to work from home.

The council then moved to the consent agenda, which included various intergovernmental agreements (IGAs) related to projects such as composting services, transportation improvements, and funding for opioid response programs. Each item was approved unanimously by the council.

The meeting also featured a public hearing regarding proposed changes to the commercial and industrial potable water rate schedules and adjustments to the water supply fee. Zach Yentzer, representing the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce, spoke in favor of the proposed rate changes, acknowledging the collaborative efforts between the chamber and Tucson Water. He commended the outreach and engagement from Tucson Water's director, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open dialogue on water-related issues.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted significant discussions around employee compensation and water rate adjustments, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to address the needs of its workforce and the community. The council's approval of the consent agenda and the public hearing on water rates indicate a commitment to infrastructure and public service, while the discussions on union negotiations reveal the challenges faced by city employees in achieving fair compensation.