But looking through the Trib today I found a very interesting article about how the City Council has generously foregone a cost of living pay increase in light of the budget crisis from our enormous tax breaks.
Sounds generous and righteous, right? Wait, it gets better:
Several council members said they have no problem going without the annual increase because they realize nearly every city department has had to make sacrifices.
Council members make $40,250 annually for what is considered a part-time job.
A 31 percent pay raise approved in 2005 boosted the council members' salaries from about $31,000 to $40,250. Although approved two years ago, the increase didn't take effect until April.
Also in April, the mayor's salary increased from $135,000 to $150,000. Her salary can now increase by the same across-the-board increase given to other managers but cannot exceed 3 percent.
Well then, who needs 3% when you've just received 31% for a part time job? Thanks guys, you're too kind.
Link to the aritcle: http://www2.tbo.com/content/2007/aug/09/me-mayor-asks-city-council-to-forgo-annual-raise/
Now for some self-serving linkage:
http://centraltampa2.tbo.com/content/2007/aug/04/st-family-recipe-for-relief1/?news
http://www.sptimes.com/2007/08/03/Citytimes/Who_s_Cooks__Co_It_s_.shtml
To reduce the budget - errr, to make the services fit the budget--- the city proposes increasing our water rates. Hmmm, people steal water from the city every day and yet the city does not make any attempt to collect the cost of the ater stolen. Given that i think they should not increase my water rates until they at least try to collect from the water thieves.
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