Baton Rouge Metro Council Debates Employee Pay Raises and Budget Concerns

Councilwoman Laurie White Adams says the Baton Rouge Metro Council is preparing for major discussions over proposed employee pay raises and long-term budget concerns. The current proposal includes a 3.5% raise for city-parish employees. Leaders are also reviewing pay scales after a study found many workers earn below market averages. White Adams says some positions still start in the teens or low $20,000 range, making it difficult to recruit and retain employees. Council members are also weighing concerns about retirement costs and employee benefits. White Adams says officials have already made changes to retiree health insurance plans and are looking for more ways to lower expenses. The discussion comes as city-parish leaders move away from relying on federal COVID-19 relief money and search for long-term financial solutions. White Adams expects many questions from council members before any final vote.