Hudson council approves 5% raises for non-department-head employees after recruitment concerns

The Hudson City Council voted to approve a 5% pay increase for non-department-head city employees after a prolonged discussion about recruitment and retention in public works.

Council members said the city had recently lost multiple public works employees and that local comparative wages lag Hudson's pay. Jake (city staff) told the council the average hourly rate for comparable towns for streets and parks roles was about $32.26 while Hudson's rate was about $28.67; for a water and sewer position the comparables averaged roughly $32 per hour, while Hudson's wage was stated as $25.95.

Council discussion centered on whether a 5% adjustment would be sufficient to retain staff and whether a larger, targeted adjustment was warranted. One council member said, "I'd like to see a minimum of 5%," and another argued that a 5% raise would show "good grace" while the finance and personnel committee examines broader pay structures ahead of the FY27 budget process.

The motion to approve a 5% increase for the affected non-department-head employees (identified in discussion as two full-time public works positions and one full-time office assistant) was moved, seconded and carried. Council instructed staff to prepare a resolution adopting the change, with the mayor indicating the increase would be effective this pay period and that the resolution would be placed on the next meeting agenda.

Council also directed that the finance and personnel committee review broader compensation comparables and potential additional adjustments during the FY27 budget process.