The discussion over pay increases for Joplin city employees continued Monday night at the Joplin city council meeting. KRPS’s Fred Fletcher-Fierro has more.
The council held two special work sessions last month specifically targeted to address pay equity among city employees.
Nearly two and a half years ago, in November of 2020, and the midst of the COVID pandemic the council approved nine percent across the board wage increases.
Last fall the council also approved 12 percent salary raises for the city’s police department and this January they approved 11 percent raises for the city’s fire department.
Monday night Joplin city manager Nick Edwards sought salary increase for the remainder of employees on an emergency basis.
Mayor Doug Lawson who at prior council meetings voted in favor of the plan had these comments Monday night.
“This study that has been done by our team, has determined positions that are vastly underpaid and we need to catch up.
I don’t believe that this plan pay anybody more than they are worth, or more than they deserve.”
The council denied Edwards special request on a five to three vote.
Six yes votes are required to pass a council bill on an emergency basis.
The pay plan now heads to a 2nd and 3rd vote at the next council meeting, Monday May 15.
For 89 9 KRPS News, I’m Fred Fletcher-Fierro
