2003/01/08 Council Agenda Packet

RESOLUTION No. A RESOLUTION PROMOTING THE USE OF APPRENTICES IN PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS WHEREAS, a highly skilled workforce is essential for enhanced economic growth and the continued prosperity of workers; and WHEREAS, apprenticeship is a proven, highly effective training model, as indicated by the 1998 Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board report, providing consistent wage progression to family wage careers; and WHEREAS, the 1998 Employment Security Department report, Studies in Industry and Employment, highlighted that apprenticeship programs in Washington are "effective but underutilized;" and WHEREAS, shortages of skilled construction workers limit job growth and affect our economy. This "skill gap" problem will continue to grow, due to the large number of skilled worker retirements and increased construction activity; and WHEREAS, the responsibility to train the next generation of skilled workers rests with both the public and private sectors; and WHEREAS, the City of Everett is committed to working in partnership with labor and business to create a skilled workforce that reflects the diversity of our population and promotes community development; and WHEREAS, recent actions of the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council (WSATC) have made apprenticeships more widely available in the construction industry; and WHEREAS, growing participation in apprenticeship programs today will ensure a viable workforce in the construction trade industry tomorrow; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EVERETT that: A. The City shall require good faith efforts from contractors to use WSATC -registered apprentices as follows: 1. Levels of Apprenticeship Participation shall be: A. For tenant improvements of the Public Space Building that is being constructed adjacent to the Regional Special Events Center, fifteen percent (15%) of total labor hours; A. .