-amid revenue shortfall
The Georgetown City Council engaged in intense debate on Monday over whether to implement salary increases for its more than 500 employees in 2024 and 2025, as the municipality grapples with a significant revenue shortfall.
City Treasurer, Ugoshi Orgista, proposed limiting salary increases to 2024 while focusing on boosting revenue through demand notices. She outlined the financial implications of potential raises, noting that a 10% increase would cost the municipality an additional $8.5 million monthly, while a 6.5% increase would require $5.56 million more each month. The municipality’s current wage bill stands at approximately $1.4 billion, with employment overhead costs exceeding $226 million.
Councillors from the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) supported a “fair and equitable” salary increase for municipal workers. However, representatives from A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) emphasised the need for sustainable funding sources before committing to any raise.
