Part 4/11:
The scene inside the chambers was chaotic—shouts, disruptions, and visible frustration from both protesters and council members. Some supporters viewed the amendments as a balanced compromise, reducing the immediate economic burden on restaurants while still moving toward wage parity. Critics, however, argued that such incremental increases could still destabilize an already fragile industry.
This animosity underscored a broader ideological divide: progressives pushing for higher wages versus business owners struggling to absorb additional labor costs. The vote ultimately passed narrowly, with a 7-5 majority, to implement the phased increase.