THE CORPGRATION OF THE CITY OF PORT COQUITLAM C 0 1 N C | [
D

EC 29 1982

MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and Council December 29th, 1982

FROM: Aldexman E.W. Mabbett

Re: Proposed Council Indemnity Increase.

As I may well be away when this proposed increase comes forth for final
approval, I again want to voice my strong objections and have them
recorded.

The arguments put forth during the debate on December 20, 1982 in my
opinion are absolutely contradictory to the tone set for budget meetings
‘this year. Every item we look at, we question very closely, why the
increase or can we reduce the particular service to people; or should we
decrease the subsidy and make the participating citizens pay more towards
the various sports, etc.

The position of elected officials in this City is not a full time position;
we are well: aware of the stipend when we run for office, in most cases

we are aware of the amount of time that is required to perform the

duties of an elected official.

Under ordinary conditions where there are no hard financial restraints,
I agree indemnities should move up; however 1983 is not the time for
leaders in a community to even consider any upward revision.

When our industries and commercial enterprises are fighting to survive
these bad economic times I would hope that this Council would reconsider
this proposed increase, in light of the tight money situation, where we
are looking so closely at the provisional budgets of ail departments,
put particularly the protective services (police and fire) budget.

As has been stated publicly it is the intention of the City to go into
bargaining very soon with all our employees, due to the economic conditions

the talks will be on a zero increase for 1983.

Once the economy turns around, we can re~assess the stipends City Council
receives in. relationship to other communities etc.

In the meantime let us show good leadership and practice the restraint
we are talking about during these very difficult times.
Respectfully submitted,

Alderman E.W. Mabbett