The recent revelation that the Allegheny County executive’s inner circle was giving themselves large wage increases is disturbing to say the least (”Large raises for Allegheny County’s top staffers raise timing questions”). Currently, 80% of all county workers, represented by AFSCME Local 2622, make less than the county median wage. This is unacceptable.
Allegheny County workers go to work every day because they are dedicated, loyal public servants who are committed to keeping our most vulnerable neighbors safe. During the pandemic, the work of ensuring the safety of children, youth and families could not end — this vital, essential work had to continue. Local 2622-represented workers went to work every day. When restaurants were reopening, our members were out there inspecting them to ensure residents’ safety. When our communities needed public health services, our members were there. Allegheny County workers have a deep commitment to providing vital, essential services.
We have been negotiating in good faith with the county. Yet the county continued to argue that there were no additional funds for wage increases for these essential workers. When county leaders want to find funds for self-serving purposes, they can find it.
The county executive must honor these professional workers with professional pay.
John D. Galuska
Greentree