The Taylor City Council recently found itself the target of much public scorn after members gave themselves a hefty pay hike, which went far and above what a residents’ committee had suggested.
In all fairness, several city councils in Texas during the last 20 years have voted themselves raises. At the same time, many county leaders elected to commissioners courts often allocate themselves even more money, sometimes six figures or above.
Some budget-conscious taxpayers argue that public service should be a voluntary calling prompted by a willingness to serve one’s community, with no salary attached.
These days, in spite of the hue and cry that often comes when politicians vote on a pay increase, the real question should not be about how much but instead: Are these leaders worth it? Do they work hard enough for their constituents to merit more than a small stipend?
Think about it. Put yourself in their shoes. Many of our elected leaders still have day jobs, run a business or work for someone else — just like the rest of us.
So add into the mix that after you leave work, you still have night meetings, day meetings, special-called meetings, workshops, hearings, visits with neighborhood groups, a lot of traveling, running around and people bending your ear all the time.
What if you’re a stay-at-home parent caring for children but also a municipal elected leader? Parenting is a taxing, full-time job without monetary compensation, so getting paid to lead your city is not asking much.
If you were elected, wouldn’t you want to be paid a reasonable sum, even if you answered the call to serve the public out of the goodness of your heart?
Much is asked of these officeholders. Frankly, they are busier than a lot of us.
However, when the public disagrees about the amount, then put the matter before voters in a referendum. Let the people decide. The politicians work for the public, not the other way around.
While sometimes it is hard to justify the salaries of many county commissioners across Texas, city council members work just as hard or harder and generally make far less.
Perhaps in May the debate on pay will be decided once and for all for the Taylor council if the issue makes it on the ballot. Public service also means listening to public input.
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