Council splits on proposed labor-code changes; agrees only to move a timing update forward

City human-resources staff and the city's labor counsel presented proposed updates to Chapter 2.25 of the Salisbury City Code to modernize bargaining procedures, clarify the scope of negotiable wages and benefits, and change arbitration procedures.

Dan (city labor counsel, participating by Zoom) explained that one significant change would make an arbitrator's decision subject to council review and would limit the financial ceiling of any arbitrator award to the mayor's proposed budget for that year. The proposal also adds a definition of "regular" part-time employees and clarifies the selection process for arbitrators, including use of a roster of qualified arbitrators.

Several councilmembers said they support only narrow improvements that align bargaining with the budget calendar but opposed removing binding arbitration or otherwise reducing the union negotiating position. One councilmember said she would not move forward with any change beyond a schedule adjustment and argued that cost-of-living and staffing concerns make binding arbitration protections important to retaining workers.

After discussion the council directed staff to proceed to the legislative session with the time-line change only (specific lines in the draft ordinance were identified), and to return with the remainder of the proposed amendments after further review and consultation with stakeholders.

Why it matters: The changes would alter how impasses are resolved and could limit an arbitrator's ability to award compensation increases beyond budgeted parameters, affecting city employees and municipal budgeting.

Next steps: Staff will bring a revised ordinance for legislative consideration containing the agreed time-line change, and will continue to consult with counsel, unions and stakeholders on remaining amendments.