06-07-10, Herbert Molano Regarding the Timing of Public Employee Benefits Introduction - Sinister Move?

Mayor and Council members:

The timing of the urgency ordinance on Tuesday, June 8^th, will leave many residents unaware of your actions.  I am referring to the urgency introduction of the $1.2 million benefit pay package you'll introduce on Tuesday's council session.

Tuesday evening, residents who are politically involved will be watching the primary results for governor and other political offices, leaving lots of people unaware of your actions.

It is unconscionable that in these harsh economic times you've negotiated to cover for senior managers 90% of the increased medical insurance premiums.  A review of the many senior managers shows that they are now receiving tens of thousands of dollars in annual compensation ABOVE all increases calculated based on the Consumer Price Index.

Furthermore, despite a decrease in the Consumer Price Index in 2008-2009, increases in pay and benefits were allowed a year ago, meaning more money in the pockets of highly paid city management and employees.

In the meantime, the city increased the rates in 2009 for electrical use (9% in January 2009).

It is time to correct and reverse this abuse.  And it is unconscionable to bring this up as an urgency ordinance on a day when there is the least possible public scrutiny or coverage.

A full and clear review of all the benefits given must be discussed in public when there is full attention by the electorate.

Herbert Molano