Crisis on the Horizon

Residents of the City of Coral Gables have come to expect a certain level of excellence from their local government. However, reports from city employees in the automotive, communications, police and fire departments indicate there are serious problems that are being ignored by its leaders.

Back in October, we reported on the mechanics’ brief strike to show their dissatisfaction with their pay and compensation (Mechanics a No-Show). Unfortunately, the situation has only gotten worse since then.

Currently, the automotive division is home to only one full-time mechanic, leading to delays in vehicle repairs and maintenance and putting the community at risk. Officers are being asked to postpone the required maintenance to their police vehicles due to lack of spare vehicles and qualified mechanics. This staffing crisis has been exacerbated by the fact that the city is unable to compete with the higher salaries and benefits offered by the private sector and other government entities in South Florida.

In following articles, we will delve further into the issues facing the communications, fire, and police departments. These problems, combined with the staffing crisis in the automotive division, are a cause for concern for all residents of our city.

The Gables Beacon reached out to the automotive & communications Union President, David Renshaw (Teamsters Local 769) who had this to say:

“Earlier this year, we (Teamsters Local 769) suggested to City Officials that a compensation study be considered – so we are glad that it is being conducted.  We are hopeful that the study comes back with a conclusion that we already know: the wages are not keeping pace with the employees’ cost of living.  There is no question that Miami-Dade County is an expensive place to live and to raise a family.  Employers like the City of Coral Gables should be setting the standard making sure that the wages and benefits that the City offers are at the most competitive levels.  This would help reduce employee turnover and reward those employees – many of whom were deemed “essential” during the pandemic – with the level of compensation that they deserve.“

As mechanics continue to leave for better opportunities at repair shops and automotive dealerships, the staffing crisis in the automotive division shows no sign of abating. Hopefully, the compensation study will be released and provide helpful insight to remedy the situation.  During this waiting period, it’s time for our city leaders to take a hard look at this problem and find a solution before it’s too late.

The community deserves better.