"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
Let's do some math…
A ZERO increase in the budget equals ZERO merit raises for county employees.
I get that.
No money equals no raises for employees.
What I *don't* get is how a ZERO increase equals a 27-thousand dollar pay increase for County Manager Harry Jones?
Since when has ZERO equaled more than ZERO?
Never.
Recently, Mr. Jones requested a DECREASE to his compensation.
It was a nice suggestion.
But his base salary next year is actually going up!
It'll be $242,500… his current pay is $215,655.
This doesn't look like a decrease to us.
How did this happen?
The Commissioners had already agreed to pay Jones's health premiums if he's terminated before 2011… as well the premiums for his wife until she is eligible for Medicare.
This is regardless of if Mr. Jones retires or is terminated.
So at a time when county employees are being laid off, and NO raises are being given… the Top Dog makes 27-thousand more in salary and benefits.
Maybe our budget woes aren't because Harry Jones received a raise.
Maybe our commissioners need a math lesson.
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
