Town Council

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Town Council approved a 2.5 per cent increase for non-union full-time and part-time employees that includes pool employees, Saugeen Shores medical building employees, the Police Service Board, Planning Advisory Committee and volunteer firefighters, as well as the Council itself.

Deputy Mayor Luke Charbonneau did not agree however, saying that Council should not be approving its own increase.  "Unlike those others who work for the town, this is not meant to be a living wage," he said.  "It is a stipend and it comes up every year.  I think members of council should be dealt with separately.  We just got the job six months ago and I don't think we are in line for a raise. Therefore, I do not support this increase for Council."

Vice-Deputy Mayor Doug Gowanlock pointed out however,  a Cost of Living (COLA) was decided on at the time of amalgamation 12 years ago.  "It avoids the cost of a study being done to compare remuneration with other municipalities," he said.  "Therefore, I do support this."

Councilor Diane Huber added that volunteer firefighter should also be treated as distinct and more in keeping with the police services..

"While I support this," said Councilor Thead Seaman, "I think perhaps, it is time for a review."

"This is the fifth time since I've been on council that we've said we need a review," added Charbonneau. "This is not a decision made 12 years ago.  It is made every year and here we are again today, making the same decision."

According to staff, the annual COLA increase is estimated to cost approximately $85,600 and was built into the 2011 budget.

The vote was taken, with Charbonneau and Huber opposed, and the increase retroactive to January was approved.  

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Wednesday, May 11, 2011