Mayor Kimo Alameda has announced his intention to honor the temporary hazard pay arbitration award for Hawaii County employees, bringing to a close a years-long dispute.
The arbitrator in this case initially ruled employees would get a limited payout for a maximum of six months. On his final day in office, Mayor Mitch Roth applauded the decision, which he knew would screw over his employees.
Of course, that decision was immediately appealed by us for its numerous flaws. We made a strong case that you kept the county running during the COVID-19 pandemic, and you deserve fair compensation for it. In the end the arbitrator saw it our way.
The county will abide by the amended decision and paying a 15% hazard pay differential to all employees who worked during the two-year period of the pandemic. We are appreciative of the positive and productive collaboration that we’ve received from Mayor Alameda in resolving this case. It marks a stark contrast with the previous occupant of that office who saw fit to thumb his nose at his employees at every turn. It really is a new day for Hawaii County.
We are awaiting more information on the payout schedule and other details. As always, we’ll keep you posted on our progress.
Until then, let’s celebrate what can happen when we remain #HGEAStrong!
