IBEW utility worker contract

The IBEW business representative said negotiations with the city are near the finish line but a wage gap remains, and asked the council to give negotiators flexibility to close it.

A journeyman lineman said he wants to stay in Pasadena but can't afford to with current wages, as neighboring utilities offer higher pay and double-time overtime.

A 25-year senior cable splicer said the city loses about 30% of the journeymen it trains because Burbank and other utilities pay far more, per the city's own salary survey.

A 23-year power department mechanic recounted working through the Eaton fires to restore power to the water system feeding fire hydrants, saying the workers at risk of leaving are the ones who showed that bravery.