Fort Madison, IA – The unions, representing dozens of Lee County employees, are asking for significant pay increases for the upcoming fiscal year. The Board of Supervisors has accepted the initial contract proposals from the unions representing employees in the Sheriff's Department, the Secondary Roads Department, and the Administrative Unit. The Sheriff's department is asking for a 7.0% pay hike and additional time off for funeral leave. The proposal from the secondary roads department calls for a 10% pay hike and more money for safety glasses. The administrative unit is asking for an increase in base pay for its employees, an across-the-board pay hike of $1.80/hour, and a longer workweek for union employees within the Auditor's, Recorder's and Treasurer's offices. In addition, each union is requesting additional longevity pay and a change in retirement policy. Currently, retired employees do not receive compensation for unused sick leave. Each union wants employees to receive payment equal to 1/2 their hourly rate to pay for health insurance premiums. Lee County will provide a counter proposal to each of the three unions during an upcoming public meeting. Further contract negotiations would take place in private.
Lee County Employees Want Pay Hike
