Pueblo County employees demand higher wages amid rising living costs and inflation struggles

Pueblo County employees are voicing strong concerns over a recently proposed 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) during the January 7, 2025, Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting. Many workers expressed that this increase falls short of addressing the rising costs of living and the financial struggles they face, with most employees relying on second jobs to make ends meet.

Cynthia Martinez, a county employee for nearly four years, highlighted that 95% of her coworkers, including herself, struggle with basic needs and live paycheck to paycheck. She emphasized that Pueblo County offers the lowest wages for their positions in the state, urging the board to consider the positive impact a higher wage would have on families.

Brenda Maldonado raised concerns about the adequacy of the COLA in light of inflation, which has significantly affected the cost of essential goods and services. She called for a reconsideration of the raise, suggesting that the contributions of the Clerk and Recorder's Office deserve greater recognition.

Other employees echoed similar sentiments, with many describing the raise as a "slap in the face." They pointed out that the modest increase does not align with the economic realities they face, including rising housing, healthcare, and transportation costs. Charles Sierra noted that fair compensation is crucial for employee morale and retention, while Alicia Teekill expressed that the delay in implementing the raise until April exacerbates the financial strain on workers.

Devin Berman and Ewan McCrory also criticized the COLA, stating that it would only marginally improve their financial situations and would not adequately reflect the pressures of inflation. Kayla Sanchez emphasized that many employees, including single parents, are struggling to provide for their families and deserve a raise that reflects their dedication and the cost of living.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among county employees regarding their compensation and the perceived lack of support from the county government. As the board considers the feedback from its workforce, the call for a more substantial wage adjustment continues to resonate, highlighting the need for a reassessment of employee compensation in Pueblo County.