A resolution establishing a policy to achieve a basic wage rate to allow all working persons to earn an amount sufficient to ensure that their annual income exceeds the poverty level.

WHEREAS, it should be the goal of Metropolitan Government, its residents, and all employers within the area of Metropolitan Government to pay basic wage rates that ensure that all working persons have a sufficient earned income that would exceed the federal poverty standards; and

WHEREAS, to assist in accomplishing this goal it is the desire of the Metropolitan County Council to adopt a policy relative to the payment of a basic wage rate.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

SECTION 1. It shall be the policy of the Metropolitan Government that a basic wage rate be adopted in the general pay plan, and all other pay plans which govern the salaries of all employees of Metropolitan Government and its related agencies, boards, commissions, and authorities that would ensure that such employees receive an annual salary that would equal 105% of the current federal poverty standard for a family of four, which equates to an hourly rate of $8.92 an hour as of the date of adoption. All pay plans should give due consideration to the adoption of such base wage rate through a two-year phase-in. By August 1 of 2001 the goal to be achieved should equate to 100% of the federal poverty line for a family of four ($8.50 an hour) with the ultimate goal being attained not later than August 1, 2002.

SECTION 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored By:  Don Majors, Eileen Beehan, Chris Ferrell & Carolyn Tucker

May 25, 2001

The Honorable Ronnie Steine
102 Metro Courthouse
Nashville, TN 37201

Dear Vice Mayor Steine:

Our shared goal is to assure a fair and sustaining income for the employees of the Metro Government of Nashville. The resolution adopted by the Council expresses this goal as the policy of the Council for the future.

As you know, the establishment of a pay plan for the city and its workers is the shared responsibility of the Mayor and the Council. In the immediate future we will present the administration's proposal for the pay plan for Metro workers. I believe this pay plan assures the opportunity for a fair and sustaining income for our workers.

Because this plan will warrant the review and approval of the Council, I believe it meets our shared goals. I am therefore returning this resolution without my signature. I believe we will continue to meet our goals and responsibilities in the years ahead.

Sincerely,

/s/ Bill Purcell
Mayor