Metra raises pay of hundreds of non-union workers

Metra commuter rail officials say about 450 non-union employees received pay increases this month averaging 8 percent in an effort to end a management exodus and keep salaries competitive in the industry.

CEO Don Orseno said Thursday an analysis of other transit markets indicated Metra salaries were lagging. He added several supervisors went without raises in recent years while union members received pay hikes.

Metra officials told the Chicago Sun-Times the agency lost four top information technology people in recent weeks. They note because some managers were paid less than those they supervise there was little incentive for unionized workers to seek management posts.

Metra became embroiled in scandal last year when the previous CEO said he was forced out for resisting political pressure in hiring and contract decisions.