At that time, our relative position for many job classes was only raised to the median or just below the median level in the competitive Atlanta market. Even then it was anticipated that additional increases would be needed this year in order to maintain a competitive position in the market. As a reminder, general salary adjustments are not automatically awarded but are based on employee merit and performance. Due to budgetary restraints in the early 1990's, we reduced our target for salary ranges to the median salary level, meaning that we pay somewhere in middle range. Quality employees are the key to successful operations of the City of Decatur.
Recruitment continues to be difficult for a number of positions.
To achieve our core service delivery mission, we must have well qualified staff available to perform the work. In order to remain competitive and to continue to attract and retain high quality workers, the general salary adjustment should be approved. Without it, we will see an additional increase in the number of employees leaving for other employment opportunities and we will have a very difficult time attracting qualified new personnel. Detailed results of the salary study are included as an appendix. The last two actuarial studies of the Retirement System have indicated that the City is not required to make a contribution to fund retirement liabilities.