Chemung County and the Civil Service Employees Association have reached a tentative labor agreement that includes general wage increases and changes intended to narrow longstanding differences between county pay schedules.
County Executive Christopher Moss announced the agreement October 6. It still requires ratification by CSEA members and the County Legislature.
According to the county’s release, general wage increases would be 3.5 percent in 2027, 3 percent in 2028 and 3.25 percent in 2029. The agreement also includes targeted changes to newer salary schedules that have historically paid less than comparable legacy schedules.
The county says the two-tier wage structure has existed for more than a decade. The proposed schedule changes are intended to reduce disparities among employees doing comparable work while preserving career progression and recognizing experience.
Moss says the agreement is designed to help the county recruit and retain qualified employees. Officials cite employee turnover, recruiting difficulties and competition from private employers and neighboring governments as workforce challenges.
The county identifies public works, information technology, public-safety support and health-related services among areas where competitive compensation helps attract skilled employees.
The release describes the agreement as an investment in the workforce and says many newer employees would receive the greatest benefit from targeted adjustments. It does not provide an overall contract cost or announce ratification dates.
The next required step is approval by union members and the legislature. Until those votes are completed, the agreement remains tentative.
