Title
Discussion of a Public Engagement Process to Consider How to Address Minimum Wage, Fair Scheduling and Workplace Safety
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
The Finance Committee recommends discussing a public engagement process to consider how to address minimum wage, fair scheduling and workplace safety.
City Manager Recommendation:
Discuss a public engagement process to consider how to address minimum wage, fair scheduling and workplace safety in the City of Olympia.
Report
Issue:
Whether to discuss a public engagement process to consider how to address minimum wage, fair scheduling and workplace safety in the City of Olympia.
Staff Contact:
Stacey Ray, Assistant City Manager, 360.753.8046.
Presenter(s):
Stacey Ray, Assistant City Manager
Background and Analysis:
The City Council has been exploring ways to improve local economic opportunity and resiliency for community members since 2015. At that time, the intent was to catalyze a regional conversation on workplace wages, sick and safe leave, and predictability of work scheduling. The City Council did not take formal action.
Shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic, a regional coalition of stakeholders came together to address economic response and recovery for businesses and community members in Thurston County. A 24-month plan, including strategies to address major economic stability challenges exposed by the pandemic, was developed and implemented.
As a next step, the City of Olympia embarked on developing its own strategies to address local economic opportunity and resiliency. Known as Olympia Strong, the resulting strategies were accepted by City Council on September 10, 2024, as the City's priorities for creating and maintaining economic opportunity for those struggling in our community.
Through widespread community member, partner organization, and economic sector engagement, Olympia Strong identified the greatest and most persistent economic challenges for individuals; among...
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