pages: CityCouncil/2021-03-16.pdf, 5
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CityCouncil | 2021-03-16 | 5 | Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of the staff recommendation [final passage of the ordinance]. Councilmember Knox White seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: Ayes; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 4. Noes: 1. COUNCIL REFERRAL (21-169) Consider Adoption of Urgency Ordinance or Introduction of Ordinance Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Adding Section 4-61 (Grocery Worker Hazard Pay) to Require Large Grocery Stores in Alameda to Pay Employees an Additional Five Dollars ($5.00) per Hour in Hazard Pay during the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic and to Include Enforcement of Emergency Hazard Pay to Grocery Employees. (Vice Mayor Vella and Councilmember Knox White) Vice Mayor Vella gave a brief presentation. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested clarification about the size of stores covered under the ordinance. Vice Mayor Vella stated the ordinance has a square footage requirement and is geared towards large grocery stores; the ordinance would not impact a corner store or convenience mart; the store has to have 500 employees or more. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the ordinance has a sunset. Vice Mayor Vella responded the ordinance is not intended to continue forever; stated the ordinance is set to sunset either when the pandemic State of Emergency end or when Alameda enters the Yellow Tier; there are a few clauses which provide protection; the matter is timely and time restrictive; expressed support for the ordinance being passed as an urgency ordinance. Stated the matter is concerning; there has been considerable pushback against the matter; the matter is selectively rewarding employees of large grocery stores and many other essential workers are not being given bonuses; the matter is attacking large companies; discussed funding sources; stated the matter is a feel-good measure and is inappropriate: Jay Garfinkle, Alameda. Discussed representation; stated essential worker's risk their life every day due to exposure to COVID-19; grocery stores are reaping increased profits; grocery workers have a one in five chance of contracting COVID-19; urged Council to adopt the ordinance: Becky Rhodes, Alameda Labor Council. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 5 March 16, 2021 | CityCouncil/2021-03-16.pdf |