Editor:
Re: Running short is now OK, Murphy's Law, June 14
Your article flowed until the last few words of the very last sentence, namely: "...but didn't they just hinder their own bargaining position in the process?"
There is no bargaining process. When council members feel they are entitled to a raise, they vote themselves one.
When there is negative feedback, they merely circle the wagons and justify their action with one or all of these three responses: Firstly, the council in a nearby locale makes more than we do (but has less work and has fewer responsibilities), so we need pay equity. Secondly, we need to pay top dollar to attract talented people, so we need to raise the pay levels. And last but not least, if you don't like what I'm doing, you can vote me off council at the next election.
Is it any wonder my cynicism of all things political continues to grow.
Robert W. Craig
