The City of Fenton held a Special and Board of Aldermen Committee Meeting on December 12, 2024, where budgetary considerations for employee raises were a primary focus. The discussion centered around proposed salary increases for the year 2025, with initial suggestions for a 4% raise being met with skepticism due to current economic indicators, including a Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase of approximately 2.5%.

Alderman Kreutz initiated the conversation by proposing a more modest raise of 2.5%, arguing that it aligns better with actual inflation rates and would help maintain the city's budgetary health. He emphasized the need to support lower-paid employees, suggesting that a flat increase per employee might be more equitable than a percentage-based raise, which would disproportionately benefit higher earners.

The committee debated the merits of a flat raise versus a percentage increase, with some members expressing concern that a flat raise could undervalue the contributions of department heads and more experienced employees. Alderman Jokers supported Kreutz's proposal but acknowledged the complexity of fairly compensating employees across different pay scales.

The discussion also touched on the historical context of employee raises in Fenton, noting that previous years had seen significant increases for lower-paid staff. Some members argued that the current pay structure should reflect the responsibilities of department heads, while others maintained that all employees should receive equal treatment in raises to foster morale and equity.

Ultimately, a motion was made to recommend a 2.5% raise for all employees, including those who have reached the top of their pay ranges. This motion was seconded and led to further discussion about the implications of such a decision, particularly regarding the budget and the potential need for adjustments in future years.

The committee concluded the meeting with a consensus on the need for a more structured approach to employee compensation, recognizing the importance of balancing fairness with fiscal responsibility. The final decision on the proposed raises will be brought to the full Board of Aldermen for a vote in the upcoming meeting.