EPC stops 'minimum living wage' movement – Winnipeg Free Press

A call for a “living wage” for all City of Winnipeg workers has hit a roadblock.

On Tuesday, the council's executive policy committee voted to take no action on the proposal, which would have set a minimum living wage for all city employees by Jan. 1, 2025, as well as employees who provide city services through private contracts.

Mayor Scott Gillingham said he was concerned that implementing a living wage would prompt other city employees to ask for a raise, resulting in new costs.

The mayor also said salary decisions are best left to labor negotiations, and the city has an extensive compensation package for overpaid workers, such as health and pension benefits.

Number. Sherry Rollins (Fort Rouge-East Fort Harry) voted against the no-action call, noting that a living wage would help close the gender wage gap.

The proposal, which the Canadian Center for Policy Alternatives notes would recommend a living wage of $19.21 an hour, still needs a final council vote.