TUKWILA, Wash. — The community coalition “Raise the Wage Tukwila” went to City Hall with petitions in hopes that voters will see the issue on the ballot in November.
The group took more than two months and collected signatures it believes could improve the lives of thousands of minimum-wage workers.
The coalition took more than 2,500 signatures in support of raising the minimum wage. The group only needs 1,661 valid signatures to secure a spot on the ballot.
The city’s minimum wage is currently $14.49. However, the coalition would like to see the minimum wage raised to $17.54 by next year, which would put it on par with neighboring SeaTac and Seattle.
SeaTac’s minimum wage sits at $17.54 and Seattle’s is $17.27.
Organizer Katie Wilson said this year’s continued inflation only amplifies the need to act.
“Thousands of low-wage workers are making close to this minimum. And they and their families are struggling to afford the rising costs of rent and basic necessities like groceries and gas,” said Wilson.
Those who are pushing for the citywide pay raise like Wilson believe the effort to increase the minimum wage is just the beginning. Wilson believes that the proposed initiative will be successfully placed on the ballot and come to fruition in 2023, improving the community.
“Minimum wage doesn’t mean minimum quality of life. It does not mean minimum access to the American Dream,” said Bilan Aden with the African Community Housing and Development.
While organizers are optimistic about a wage hike, they admit not everyone is sold on the idea. The biggest concern they have is how it could possibly affect small businesses, especially those recovering from the pandemic and the rising cost of goods.