National City Council urged to improve wages and benefits for part-time staff

The National City Special City Council meeting on June 17, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding employee compensation and benefits, particularly for part-time staff. Several speakers addressed the need for improved job opportunities and higher wages to retain talent within the city.

One speaker emphasized the urgent need for better job opportunities and higher wage increases, arguing that the current proposals are insufficient to meet the rising cost of living. They highlighted the importance of supporting part-time workers with holiday pay and enhanced benefits, noting that turnover has become a significant issue as many skilled employees leave for better-paying positions elsewhere.

Another participant raised concerns about the negotiation process, criticizing the vague responses from the city regarding proposed changes. They expressed frustration over the lack of clarity in communication, suggesting that the city should provide more detailed feedback to facilitate realistic counterproposals from staff representatives.

Additionally, specific demands were outlined, including a better cost-of-living allowance, adjustments to wage tables, and the introduction of paid bereavement leave. The speakers collectively underscored the importance of addressing these issues to ensure the city can retain its workforce and maintain operational efficiency.

The discussions at this meeting reflect ongoing efforts to improve working conditions for city employees, highlighting the need for the council to take decisive action in response to these concerns. The outcomes of these discussions may significantly impact employee satisfaction and retention in National City.