So the 2019 budget has passed and with that comes controversy, not surprising really when you consider that only seven people decide where our tax dollars are spent. Unlike other budgets that I’ve reviewed, this budget was one I would have voted for, with one exception, council approving itself a salary top up to compensate themselves for a lost tax exemption. I will admit that $35,000 out of a budget of $63.6 million is a very small percentage but it’s about perspective. At a time when many Albertans are losing their jobs or have become the working poor, this decision is out of touch with reality and disrespectful. For a group to have the capability to give itself a raise/top up is just wrong. I do not know of any other job where voting yourself a raise is possible, no wonder people are inclined to believe that politicians are only in politics for themselves. Even though Coun. Morgan Nagel continues to find a way to vote no on most issues, at least that is the overwhelming perception of the press coverage he receives, I agree with him on this point. What I think is important in this situation is the opportunity for council to fix the situation for the future. A suggestion: Why not expand the remuneration task force committee’s powers to include approving council mayor salaries? I would place one important caveat before giving these expanded powers: I was proud that our council received less than other municipalities and would have liked to see that maintained. With that in mind, I would set into policy that any wage increases, which include a valuation of other benefits that form council and mayor salaries, be 10 per cent lower than other comparable municipalities on an ongoing basis. Dan Cunin
