Richmond City Council considers study on living wage for janitorial and security contractors

Richmond City Council is taking steps to potentially raise the minimum wage for janitorial and security contractors, following a recent Finance and Economic Development Standing Committee meeting. The committee approved a resolution requesting the City Administrator to conduct a study on the fiscal and operational implications of requiring contractors to pay their employees a minimum wage of $20 per hour. The findings and recommendations from this study are expected to be presented to the council by November 1, 2025.

During the meeting, Tremaine Johnson, a lead organizer with SEIU 32 BJ, expressed gratitude for the council's acknowledgment of the need for higher wage standards for essential workers. However, he voiced disappointment over the decision to convert a proposed budget amendment aimed at raising wages into a study, citing concerns about potential delays in implementing wage increases for workers who are often living below the poverty line.

Johnson emphasized that many contracted workers are just one emergency away from financial instability, and he urged the council to take immediate legislative action by passing a living wage ordinance this summer. He argued that raising wages would not only benefit workers but also enhance the city’s economy by increasing local spending and tax contributions.

Council members echoed these sentiments, with discussions highlighting the urgent need to support contracted employees, particularly custodians and security guards. Councilwoman Gibson raised concerns about the potential for the study to conclude that raising wages is cost-prohibitive and suggested that the procurement process be amended to prioritize companies that employ unionized labor.

The committee's discussions underscored a commitment to ensuring fair wages for city contractors while balancing budgetary considerations. As the city moves forward, the outcome of the study and any subsequent legislative actions will be closely watched by community advocates and workers alike, who are eager for timely improvements in wage standards.