Clear Lake City Council approves new agreements with Municipal and Police Officers Associations

The Clearlake City Council took significant steps to enhance employee compensation and welfare during their meeting on June 16, 2022. The council unanimously approved a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Clearlake Municipal Employees Association (MEA), which will be in effect from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2025. This agreement includes a 4% salary increase effective July 1, 2022, followed by a 3% increase on July 1, 2023, and another 3% increase on July 1, 2024.

In addition to wage increases, the MOU introduces several new benefits, including a wellness stipend of $200 per fiscal year aimed at supporting employee wellness and stress management. Other changes include a uniform pants voucher for maintenance workers and updates to health in lieu payments. The agreement also clarifies procedures related to standby assignments and grievance processes.

During the discussion, Director Swanson highlighted that the city’s employees are among the best compensated in the county, with most positions ranking at the top of the pay scale. The council expressed a commitment to ensuring market equity, particularly for maintenance worker positions.

Following the approval of the MEA agreement, the council moved on to consider a similar MOU with the Clearlake Police Officers Association (POA), which will cover the period from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2024. This agreement mirrors many provisions of the MEA, including a 4% wage increase for the upcoming fiscal year and a 3% increase in the following year. Notably, the POA agreement formalizes the lead dispatcher assignment and adjusts special duty pay structures.

Both agreements reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to support its workforce while maintaining competitive compensation standards. The council's actions are expected to foster a more motivated and satisfied workforce, ultimately benefiting the community as a whole.