Elk Grove Urged To Include Prevailing Wage Language In New City Charter

The Elk Grove charter commission heard several comments from union members at last night's summit meeting held at city hall.

Co-sponsored by the City of Elk Grove Charter Commission and the Elk Grove Community Connection, the meeting was intended to discuss the proposed draft charter and solicit input from the public. Much of the public comment revolved around request for a ‘living wage.’

Prevailing wage is generally defined as the hourly wage, usual benefits and overtime, paid in the largest city in each county, to the majority of workers.

Speaking before the commission was Matt Kelly of the Sacramento-Sierra’s Building and Construction Trades Council who said there was no mention of a prevailing wage in the commission’s charter draft. “I would like to see it specifically addressed in your public works section at some point in time,” Kelly said.

“We will certainly look at it,” said charter commission chair Jake Allen.

Matt Hernandez said that lease back agreement of the city annex “cheated” the people of Elk Grove. Hernandez said the building was constructed outside the scope of prevailing wage because it was not build as a public works project.

Another person speaking regarding prevailing wages was Mavis McAllister. “If it wasn’t for the public works laws [prevailing wage laws], I wouldn’t be a homeowner in Elk Grove.”

Allen was also asked by the media why a roll at the meeting was not taken. About half way through meeting the roll call was taken.

Allen said the commission hopes to have a completed draft before the council by June. The charter commission meets the first and third Tuesday of every month.

The audio for the entire meeting is available here.