It looks like non-union employees of the Town of Saugeen Shores can expect a raise.
Treasurer Lori Sweiger has recommended that they be granted a wage increase of 2.5 per cent this year.
Sweiger says the increase would come in two steps, with the first 1.5 per cent effective January 1st, 2010 and the final 1 per cent effective July 1st, 2010.
Sweiger says they took into account the cost of living increase, which was reported to be 1.9 per cent on January 31st.
She says they also try to strike a balance between wages approved both within the municipality and across the county.
While members of the local union already have an agreement in place for a 3 per cent increase in 2010, settlements across the county have ranged from 0 to 3 per cent.
Sweiger says the group in line for the increase includes full time and part time non-union town employees, Volunteer Firefighters, the Police Service Board, the Planning Advisory Committee, employees of the Saugeen Shores Medical Building, and council.
Councillor Luke Charbonneau wanted council to lead by example and take a 0 per cent wage increase for themselves — however, his motion was defeated.
Council is expected to approve the recommended wage increase at next week’s Council meeting.