Montgomery County has increased the minimum wage for county employees to $15 an hour, citing the need to provide workers with a living wage especially amid a pandemic, writes Justin Heinze for the Patch.

This raise applies to all full and part time employees of the county government.

“We know many families continue to face challenges from low wages, depleted savings, and the increasing cost of basic household goods in some cases exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Montgomery County Commissioner Val Arkoosh during last week’s Board of Commissioners meeting.

However Republican Montgomery County Commissioner Joe Gale objected to the measure, criticizing the increase in the county’s spending levels.

“We’re facing a period of time where we have to tighten our belts, and this salary board does not reflect that,” he said.

Meanwhile the move was supported by U.S. Congresswoman Madeleine Dean, who shared the news on her Twitter account.

“Some good news to brighten your Monday,” she wrote. “Workers deserve fair compensation and a livable wage.”

County officials are now hoping Montgomery County will serve as an example to other local governments to pass similar laws and motions.

Read more about the increase at the Patch by clicking here.