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Implementation of Higher County-Wide Minimum Wage with Local 2 Law Establishment
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WHEREAS, ensuring fair and equitable wages is essential for promoting economic stability and social justice
4 within Tompkins County, and
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6 WHEREAS, a living wage is defined as the minimum income necessary for workers to meet their basic needs,
7 including food, housing, healthcare, transportation, and other essential expenses, without relying on public assistance
8 programs, and
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10 WHEREAS, the numerical wage needed for workers to meet basic needs varies significantly across counties in
11 upstate New York, with Tompkins County’s costs of living demonstrably higher than those of many nearby counties,
12 and
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14 WHEREAS, studies have shown that paying employees a living wage can lead to increased productivity,
15 reduced turnover, improved morale, and enhanced overall job satisfaction, and
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17 WHEREAS, implementing a living wage can help reduce income inequality, alleviate poverty, and promote a
18 thriving economy within Tompkins County, now therefore be it
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20 RESOLVED, That the County Legislature directs the County Attorney, County Administrator, and other
21 county staff as needed to collaborate with community stakeholders to develop an effective and sustainable minimum
22 wage policy and draft a local law outlining the specifics of the policy, including the calculation methodology, annual
23 adjustment mechanism, enforcement provisions, and any exemptions or special considerations deemed necessary.