Yes, seriously—I was told that the only thing that exists to give me more money is a 5% merit raise. Only other option is they’d have to separate me from service for three months and then hire me back on for more. I can’t believe how bullshit this is, and I work for a VERY wealthy city. They’re hiring new people on in lower positions than mine for more than I make ($23), and I do tons of supervisor work and have gone above and beyond—not anymore. I’m so frustrated with policies like this. No wonder our turnover is so high! We’re living in crazy times for workers.