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The Livermore City Council approved 5% raises last week to several city positions facing recruitment and retention challenges.
The benefiting classifications include public safety dispatchers as well as their senior and supervising roles, crime & intelligence analysts, water resources instrument control technicians, electricians, water resources coordinators, mechanics and senior mechanics.
Prior to the bump, these positions’ total compensation was between 3.3% and 14.6% below comparable agencies, according to a study referenced in the staff report prepared by human resource manager for the city Kristen Hilton. Salary competition for mechanics and electricians also exists between the city and private sector, where these classifications are generally paid more.
The resulting challenge of attracting and maintaining top talent in these classifications impacts the city’s ability to deliver services and meet organizational goals, according to city officials.
“We are thankful to the City Council for making the salary adjustment,” Livermore Police Chief Jeramy Young said of the public safety dispatchers, as those positions face staffing challenges. “We know it will have a positive impact with recruitment and retention.”
The annual cost of the raises totals approximately $242,000, which will be drawn from the city’s general fund ($197,300) and enterprise funds ($44,700).
According to the report, there are sufficient funds in the budget to cover the cost of the raises.
The salary increases received unanimous support from the council at their March 24 regular meeting. The decision was part of the consent calendar — which includes items considered routine in nature and typically approved by a single vote.
