Pacific committee forwards proposed union pay matrix to full Board after debate over timing and budget impact

The Pacific Administrative Committee voted to forward a proposed pay matrix for employees covered by the National Union of Operating Engineers Local 141 AFL‑CIO to the full Board of Aldermen on March 24, 2025, after members debated the timing of changes, who would benefit and the potential fiscal impact.

Committee members spent more than an hour discussing a matrix drafted by Public Works Commissioner Robert Bergman that would classify positions and spell out step increases over roughly a three- to five‑year span. Bergman said the matrix is intended to help recruit and retain employees by showing starting pay and steps tied to certifications and experience. "At least this way when we bring somebody in, we can show them, okay, here's your matrix. Once you meet these qualifications, this is where you're gonna be at in year 1, year 2, year 3," Bergman said.

Alderman Kelly pushed back on the timing and the form of the document, saying…