The Observation Deck

Charyn

There are two comparisons which are actually in play.

First there is the external pay equalization determination....reaching a conclusion whether there is a need to adjust base salary/benefit levels vis-a-vis the general market. Within that determination is the question of where we want our salary/benefits to fall within the range, for a given job description.

The second is an internal determination, based on job descriptions of the specific employees, where they fall on the external base pay equalization scale, and then adjusting that base for such items as logevity, experience, added training or additional responsibilities.

Most of this would not be applicable to those covered by Union contracts, but would certainly cover non-union employees. But the same analysis can be undertaken in preparation for negotiating Union contracts.

Perhaps we should do a Circuit City. ANyone who has earned increases based on longevity gets canned, then we invite them to reapply and start over at the base wage.

Jeff

Charyn Compeau wrote:For example - perhaps we are spending 25% more than the area average for a dispatcher.

The reason I asked was Lakewood is paying about 100% more for fire fighters and police officers than indicated in your sited survey.

Over the last couple of years the City has spent its reserve fund in an effort to keep up with the demands of its employees. The City is broke. Even a 50% increase in the income tax rate won't be enough cover future demands. Now what?

whoa whoa whoa....

Before we get all upset we need to take this area that has been identified and do some more work

1. First we get better, more detailed inforrmation about the county average.

2. Then we look at our costs and compare again

I'm not in the office today, but I'll see what I can find when I am back.

Charyn

PS- think the rules of the I ... Indentify, Investigate. Interpret

Charyn

1. First we get better, more detailed inforrmation about the county average.

2. Then we look at our costs and compare again

I would add that we need to get information on the RANGES, not just average. Our work force may have significantly greater (or less) experience would place them at the top (or bottom) of those ranges and the average does not reflect those diviations. Then we have a true apples to apples comparison.

Jeff