Thursday, January 28, 2010

City Hall Pay Hike Debate

A Vernon councillor says he will be putting any money he makes from extra meetings into a program to help local groups. Bob Spiers is opposed to last fall's hike from nothing, to $137, for each committee meeting council members attend. "I have stated I will not apply (to be compensated) for meetings this term, and whoever doesn't apply for it, the money that is saved will not flow into general revenues but will go into the community grants program so they can be used for non profits."

Councillor Jack Gilroy defends the need for the higher rate, saying its not just for attending the meetings but for preparation and being aware of the issues. The issue was recently brought back into the media spotlight by former council member Barry Beardsell who feels the new policy is a waste of taxpayer's money.

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