Phoenix Plans Wage Study for City Workers

Phoenix city leaders are launching a major study to determine if the current minimum wage for city workers and contractors keeps pace with the soaring cost of living in the Valley. Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington, and Councilwoman Betty Guardado are pushing for research that will analyze costs, impacts, and potential solutions — without immediately raising wages. Guardado warns that too many workers are living paycheck to paycheck, risking homelessness. While Arizona’s state minimum wage is $15.15, Guardado argues it’s no longer enough to live in Phoenix, especially compared to decades past. The study also examines whether contractors — including those at Sky Harbor Airport — should be required to pay higher wages, as airport workers say tips are their only lifeline. Unlike Flagstaff and Tucson, Phoenix is still in the research phase, but any future wage hike would need City Council approval — possibly as early as this fall. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ce152dd42e505310