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Top city earners pulling down big bucks

Lodi, Galt city managers make around $200,000 a year

By Matt Brown
News-Sentinel Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 4, 2007 1:46 PM PST

Comments (163 comment(s))

A News-Sentinel review of Lodi and Galt salaries shows that the city manager position is the highest paid with Lodi's Blair King and Galt's Ted Anderson earning the most in their respective cities. King makes $218,643 in salary and benefits while Anderson makes $193,044.

The review shows that fire and police are generally the highest paid category of workers making up half of the top 20 earners in each city. Police and firefighters earn the most in overtime and have large state retirement packages.

For example, a police sergeant in Galt made $71,000 in base salary plus $53,000 in overtime and benefits.

That reflects another finding of the review: Base pay can sometimes be deceptive in terms of overall compensation, as overtime and benefits now account for increasing pieces of the pie.

Lodi Mayor Bob Johnson, as an overseer of the city's coffers, said Lodi's salaries are in the mid-range compared with other cities in the area.

"I do think they are reasonable," he said. "Everyone wants salaries to be less, but on a competitive basis, they aren't going to be less. Compared to other communities, our salaries certainly aren't on the high end."

Galt Mayor Tim Raboy said he is happy with the salaries of rank-and-file employees, but has a problem with the salaries of department heads, who have been on a controversial pay-for-performance system for more than a year. The department heads will be given a raise based on periodic performance reviews.

"Right now, the salaries are at the median, which I think is appropriate," Raboy said. "I don't think pay-for-performance works in government."

The salary review looked at total compensation, which included overtime and benefits. The total benefit package differed depending on the job title and bargaining unit, but in most cases included the city's share of medical, dental, vision and life insurance, state retirement benefits and social security.

The cities were generally responsive to the News-Sentinel requests and produced the information in a timely manner. Both cities provided the News-Sentinel with lists of base salaries. Lodi provided the News-Sentinel with overtime and benefits for Sept. 1, 2006, to Aug. 31, 2007. Because of a difference in bookkeeping, Galt was only able to provide overtime and benefits from Jan. 1 to Sept. 24.

The News-Sentinel has decided to list the top 20 employees in each city with their name, position and total compensation value.

The News-Sentinel has also included a sample of other employees by position and salary only.

Salaries explained

We asked the city managers of Galt and Lodi to explain how their respective cities determine employees' salaries. Lodi City Manager Blair King declined. Galt City Manager Ted Anderson wrote the following:

The city of Galt has developed a compensation system that allows it to stay competitive with other cities in the region. This enables the city to recruit and retain educated, experienced and highly-qualified employees who are necessary to carry out the many important programs and services provided to the community.

In establishing competitive salaries, the city utilizes an independent consultant to conduct a salary survey of 11 neighboring cities to compare salary and benefits. Those cities are: Lodi, Marysville, Ceres, Dixon, Lathrop, Manteca, Oakdale, Placerville, West Sacramento and Woodland. These cities were chosen based on their similarity to Galt in various areas including organizational structure, population, scope of services and similar labor market.

Galt employee salaries are set by the City Council at the median of the agencies used in the survey. The city realizes that it cannot pay at the high end of the market, but believes it is important to pay in the middle of the range in order to provide a competitive salary and maintain a skilled workforce.

The most recent salary survey was conducted by Bryce Consulting and was implemented in 2006. Since that time, employees received a cost of living adjustment effective Jan. 1, 2007.

The Galt compensation plan is structured by step and grade. Each position is assigned to a specific grade. Each grade has five steps, with each step approximately five percent apart. Typically, employees begin working at the first step and move to the next step after each year of successful performance. Beginning in 2007, department directors no longer participate in the step grade system but are compensated through merit-based pay for performance system.

â€" News-Sentinel staff



Editor's note: We are reviewing numbers for the top 20 Lodi earners. We'll repost the list when possible discrepancies are resolved.

A sample of Lodi positions by base salary only
Position
Salary
Administrative Clerk$36,348
Administrative Clerk$36,348
Assistant Streets and Drainage Manager$70,416
Budget Manager$85,264
Building Inspector II$58,350
City Clerk$86,520
City Council Member$6,000
City Planner$97,821
Community Improvement Manager$95,673
Construction Project Manager$73,611
Customer Service Rep II$40,139
Deputy Water Conservation Officer$17,567
Dispatcher$51,189
Docent Coordinator$25,987
Electric Foreman$82,399
Electrician$74,430
Environmental Compliance Inspector$58,743
Facilities Supervisor$51,698
Facility Supervisor$24,960
Facility Supervisor$32,656
Fire Captain$68,919
Fire Captain$75,983
Fire Engineer$61,847
Information Services Manager$94,103
Laborer A$16,390
Laborer B$21,060
Lead Equipment Mechanic$56,821
Librarian's Associate$43,062
Library Services Director$90,036
Maintenance Worker II$45,059
Management Analyst II$66,351
Manager of Customer Services and Programs$93,693
Office Supervisor$48,350
Park Maintenance Worker II$33,708
Police Corporal$68,430
Police Sergeant$81,825
Program Coordinator$36,655
Senior Accountant$73,317
Senior Civil Engineer$91,105
Senior Civil Engineer$91,105
Senior Electric Rate Analyst$93,701
Senior Library Assistant$41,983
Senior Services Coordinator$61,847
Senior Traffic Engineer$91,113
Street Supervisor$62,832
Transportation Manager$80,978
Utility Equipment Specialist$65,422
Wastewater Plant Operator II$46,223
Wastewater Supervisor$67,562
Water Services Manager$98,958
Source: City of Lodi


Top 20 Galt employees in total compensation*
RankNamePositionSalary
1.Ted AndersonCity Manager$193,044.85
2.Loren CattolicoPolice Chief$188,915.14
3.Curt CampionCommunity Development Director$166,949.31
4.Gregg HalladayPublic Works Director$164,879.18
5.Inez KiriuFinance Director$164,122.46
6.Boyce JeffriesParks and Recreation Director$162,023.25
7.Jason BehrmannAssistant City Manager$157,834.59
8.Jim UptegrovePolice Lieutenant$144,232.97
9.Ken EricksonPolice Lieutenant$139,851.01
10.Robert GossBuilding Official$129,800.03
11.William ForrestSenior Civil Engineer$127,604.90
12.Paula IslasHuman Resources Director$125,280.12
13.Charles DedriksenPolice Sergeant$125,078.74
14.Sandra KiriuPrincipal Planner$124,267.10
15.Gary DeJesusUtility Superintendent$122,428.33
16.Ed ArltPolice Sergeant$117,226.70
17.Trung TrinhAssociate Civil Engineer$114,036.07
18.Elizabeth AguireCity Clerk$113,307.12
19.Christopher SmithPolice Sergeant$112,740.56
20.Craig WaltonPolice Sergeant$111,275.94
* Total compensation is annual base salary plus the value of nine months of benefits and overtime.
Source: City of Galt


A sample of Galt positions by base salary only
Position
Salary
Accounting Assistant II$38,004
Accounting Assistant II$39,900
Accounting Manager$81,648
Administrative Assistant$48,612
Assistant Market Operations Supervisor$41,988
Associate Planner$67,020
Building Permit Specialist$32,040
Code Compliance Officer$57,840
Construction Inspector$57,864
Crime Prevention Coordinator$37,692
Deputy City Clerk$53,664
Dispatcher$37,692
Dispatcher$39,576
Dispatcher$45,792
Engineering Assistant$56,412
Equipment Mechanic$48,612
Executive Assistant to City Manager$56,376
Human Resource Specialist$42,012
Market Operations Supervisor$53,664
Office Assistant III$38,004
Parking Enforcement Assistant$36,120
Parks Maintenance Supervisor$53,664
Parks Maintenance Worker I$30,492
Parks Superintendent$79,668
Police Officer$48,384
Police Officer$50,796
Police Officer$53,328
Police Officer$58,788
Police Sergeant$64,884
Public Works Maintenance Worker I$31,272
Public Works Maintenance Worker I$34,464
Public Works Maintenance Worker I$37,980
Public Works Maintenance Worker II$36,240
Public Works Maintenance Worker II$38,040
Public Works Maintenance Worker II$41,928
Recreation Coordinator$39,900
Recreation Supervisor$59,232
Senior Building Inspector$63,840
Senior Equipment Mechanic$53,664
Senior Public Works Maintenance Worker$44,076
Senior Public Works Maintenance Worker$46,272
Special Programs Administrator$79,668
Streets Field Supervisor$51,180
Supervising Engineer Technician$75,828
Wastewater Plant Supervisor$68,688
Wastewater System Operator I$44,052
Wastewater System Operator II$48,612
Water System Supervisor$68,688
Water Systems Operator I$39,972
Water Systems Operator II$48,612
Source: City of Galt


Contact reporter Matt Brown at mattb@lodinews.com.

Reader Feedback

Lodian wrote on Dec 8, 2007 11:28 AM:

" FFer: Actually, in my opinion, you don't get paid enough when compared to some other public city employees. "

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OMG! wrote on Dec 8, 2007 10:51 AM:

" Be sure to check out the corrected figures in today's (12/8) paper. "

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oh wrote on Dec 7, 2007 8:14 PM:

" I know what how about we vote on your public servents pay!Based on duties individual performance?Lets take it out of the hands of the people that are getting the pay!By there own control!Does'nt that sound like a good idea?It does to me! "

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oh wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:52 PM:

" To-hey oh-Do you think people are going to tell you the real truth to your face?So you can get back at them with your mobster and name calling attitude?Yes!City workers should be paid enough to live and police department should be paid well!But you people are abusing us!And you know it!Like I said before I have family members that work in are system!I know how it works!Fleece!Fleece! "

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to oh wrote on Dec 7, 2007 1:14 PM:

" Your low regard for the value of cops and fireman is a little backward. Has the FBI surrounded your trailer park again? Just yell Larry the next time you need help and all of your brothers should show up. "

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T & C wrote on Dec 7, 2007 1:04 PM:

" When they get their greedy hands on that redevelopment money everyone will get a raise. "

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hey oh wrote on Dec 7, 2007 12:14 PM:

" and to your response to ticked he is right leave lodi if you dont like it the officers and fireman make alot less money then the majority of cities with the same size and population your actually getting a deal pal there highly trained cops and firefighters and it makes me sick to hear the diahera that comes out of your mouth "

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hey oh wrote on Dec 7, 2007 12:08 PM:

" its so good to know there really isnt a uproar to our fireman and policemen making the money they deserve you dont know how they do there job and ive talked to alot of people in town and all are in agreement your just flat crazy attacking the people the protect us do yourself a favor and just say thank you to the men and women in blue for the job they do "

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oh wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:53 AM:

" Hey!Ticked you should be ashamed of your self!My family has been hear sence 1849 and a big part of Lodi!They have been generous to this town and then it started abusing us!As it goes again here you are telling me!That if I don't like the fact that you are screwing us more!I can get the hell out!I'am 5 generation Lodi dweller!I have kids and they have kids!They have left because of your type of crap!Fleece!Fleece! "

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I heard wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:55 PM:

" that Lodi PD is about to receive a 20% raise ... and you think they are overpaid now? "

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Puhleaze! wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:54 PM:

" "AK-47 pointed at their head" -- Like a Lodi cop as ever had an AK-47 pointed at their head. The truth is that most cops never even pull their weapon. Quit watching TV and movies to make your reality. They are extremely well paid not to mention all the benefits they get. "

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ticked wrote on Dec 6, 2007 7:56 PM:

" Oh, you have a choice as to who provides public services for you... you can move to another town. "

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oh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 7:11 PM:

" Thats ok give yourself all you want !It's ok that there is people that can't keep up with your waste and greed You can come around and show them how generous you are with their money!Show us how to use our money!We don't need it!You do for your early retirement!Go play santa!Don't try makeing me feel guilty!Fleece!Fleece!The poor old lady next door can't turn her heater on!Boy I'am a terrible guy!But thats aright you can stay as warm as you want!Nomatter how cold it gets!HO!HO! "

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hey oh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 4:43 PM:

" so are you going out tonight and boo santa on the fire engine "

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Thats Funny wrote on Dec 6, 2007 3:28 PM:

" Why would the LNS publish something like this? This article makes everyone that works for a muni look like they are money grubbing union flakes. That is not the case, the citizens of Lodi have good hard working people employeed there. Be thankfull. And the LNS should be more honest with these numbers and tell everyone what they really are!!! "

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Thats Funny wrote on Dec 6, 2007 3:24 PM:

" How are you going to attract and retain quality workers unless you pay them? I worked at COL for a long time before leaving for the private sector and yes for more money. I know for a fact there are more employees underpaid for what they do at the COL than overpaid. "

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Thats Funny wrote on Dec 6, 2007 3:21 PM:

" Why is everyone in Lodi so concerned over what another person makes. Yeah there public funds and yeah when you get over 400 employees you are going to have some fat. "

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to oh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:38 PM:

" no we arent easy to replace thanks to our wonderfull unions your proably easy to replace chicken "

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thank u lodi wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:36 PM:

" hey oh CHICKEN! crying all over this site while we protect your sorry butt "

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hey oh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:35 PM:

" o no THey took our jobs "

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oh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:58 AM:

" Do you people Chose who to fix your house,who to fix your car,who to mow your lawn,who to cook your food,who to buy your tv,cars,groceries,boats,gas and so on. from who do you get your pay from?And do they have a choice as to who to service them or not?Answer NO!You would not over pay for any of those things!Espeacially with your type of thinking!Fair is fair and you people are Fleeceing the people! "

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oh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:40 AM:

" Hey!Piewacket lets let those illeagals take some of those City jobs!Then lets see if things will change!Fleece!Fleece! There is thousands and thousands of people waiting for you City peoples!It is because it's like hitting the lottery!Money for nothing and retirement for free! "

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oh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:31 AM:

" Do you want to tell me what I should be chicken of?You people could be replaced at anytime!Quit trying to imtimidate people that tell the truth!Fleece!Fleece! "

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WoW wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:16 AM:

" Why do people always get mad on what other people make! If you get mad get a better job.... I don't know much about firefighters or cops but I don't hear anything about Cal Trans workers dieing in the line of duty. Plus Firefighters and cops get paid to protect and save me.... they should get paid good money!!! "

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hey oh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:03 AM:

" why dont you go down and make those comments in front of the fireman or cops i dare you ! chicken! "

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To to john brown wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:01 AM:

" do have the fire reports in front of you. you know that for a fact they dont go into fires never that just show everybody else how dumb you are to make those comments we dont have to explain to you why we make so much i dont care if you are a tax payer just shut up and let the big boys handle the work you cant handle "

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Piewhacket wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:19 AM:

" All Oh ever does is complain about other people's jobs. Half the time, he is whining about how illegals are stealing American jobs and the other half of the time he is sobbing because American workers get paid too much. What a cry baby! "

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to John Brown... wrote on Dec 5, 2007 9:04 PM:

" They NEVER go into a burning building!!! Cal Trans is a more dangerous job...they are just EMTs...we need them, but not at such an exhorbitant price...a dollar for a dollar's work, please... "

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To: hey oh wrote on Dec 5, 2007 8:15 PM:

" Good paying, what city do you work for or i guess your in a differant dept. than mine. Lodi will be laying off people in 2008, Modesto already started. "

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oh wrote on Dec 5, 2007 8:10 PM:

" You people sure are proveing that it doesn't take intelligents by your performance!Fleece!Fleece!And here you go with the name calling thats just how smart you people are!When the truth comes out you try to smear people!That is why our gov. is going the way it is!Please grow up!And Don't be stupid! "

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hey oh wrote on Dec 5, 2007 3:42 PM:

" not our faults you were not smart enough to get a good paying job "

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oh wrote on Dec 5, 2007 11:17 AM:

" Hey!John Brown!Fleece!Fleece!I have never had to call the Fire or the police department accept for someone stealing my things!I'am 52 years old and that is past (your) retierment years and don't think I will be looking for a new job!But I can tell you I bet I work harder then you people! Your uinon doesn't let people work hard!You cork it!Smart a--! "

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John Brown wrote on Dec 5, 2007 7:57 AM:

" Whiners and snivlers,same old story they don't make the same money so it must be wrong,you know the fat cats!! I would love to see how most of the snivlers would handle looking at an AK-47 pointed at their head or your inside a burning building and the roof caves in like what killed 9 firemen in the Carolina's...Don't like the money you make,get a better job... Put a cork in it... "

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Blue Sky wrote on Dec 4, 2007 9:30 PM:

" Why is the sky blue? Perhaps it is Blair's fault. "

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For Shame! wrote on Dec 4, 2007 7:24 PM:

" Shame on all you overpaid unionizers - give back some money to your rightful bosses - the common taxpayer. Time to form a new government for our fair City of Lodi! Washington, Jefferson, and Franklin will smile down upon us from Heaven! "

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No Justification wrote on Dec 4, 2007 1:22 PM:

" And hire top people with ties to Lodi. People whose families live here. People whose friends will slap them upside the head for the crap that King & Company are pulling. "

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No Justification wrote on Dec 4, 2007 1:21 PM:

" Let's get back to basics. Quit paying outrageous salaries to the top managers...they hire consultants for every major decision anyway. "

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No Justification wrote on Dec 4, 2007 1:18 PM:

" Blair is a short timer now and doesn't have to explain anything...he stated up front he was only staying in Lodi long enough for his kids to get through high school and that was about 3 years ago. "

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No justification wrote on Dec 4, 2007 1:16 PM:

" The California Governor makes $212,000.00...$6,000.00 LESS than our Lodi King. No wonder Blair had no comment, he can't possibly justify that! "

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mcg wrote on Dec 4, 2007 11:51 AM:

" 50.3 not 59.3 "

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FFer wrote on Dec 4, 2007 11:39 AM:

" Another example of bad journalism by the LNS. The records' article on public employees pay was a lot better. As a public employee I don't have a problem with people knowing how much I make. I don't see all of you in the private sector bashing us volunteering your wages and benefits. I'm proud to serve my community, whatever it may pay me. "

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mcg wrote on Dec 4, 2007 10:42 AM:

" POC, That is the problem. People don't know what they pay in taxes. At 60K Fed 25%, State 9.3%, FICA 13% SDI/Medicare 3%. 59.3% Total Any purchase I make 8% sales tax. All of the hidden taxes - gas, utility, property, auto, etc., etc.... At moderate income levels and average consumption people are well over 50% of there income going to taxes. Check it out sometime you will be amazed. "

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thank u lodi wrote on Dec 4, 2007 9:26 AM:

" P.S. has anybody seen my rolex huh i might left at the firehouse oh well hey lodi thanks again!wee i love your money "

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thank u lodi wrote on Dec 4, 2007 9:23 AM:

" well its off to cancun driving my new land rover to the airport for my first class ticket to mexico ahh iam so tired from only working 10 days out of the month at my fire job oh but i got to get back in time for my double time on christmas man iam hungry i guess ill go over to wine and roses for brunch well to talk to you angry people later iam off again today people that went to college suckers! "

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George of the Jungle wrote on Dec 4, 2007 8:41 AM:

" Hiring more police officers will reduce overtime? I don't think so. What about mandatory on-going training (required by the State), shooting re-certification every 2 months, going to court to testify for officers who work week-ends and/or graveyard, what about officers who have to work Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's (do you think the crooks take a holiday)? If you're going to make an argument, at least have some facts to back it up. "

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Blah Blah Blah wrote on Dec 3, 2007 9:50 PM:

" The test results are in, the horse is dead. You can all stop beating it now "

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PD Employee wrote on Dec 3, 2007 8:48 PM:

" I am one of the people on the list. The public pays my salary and has the right to know how much I make. I don't object to having my name listed either.I would ask residents to consider the city can't even explain to us how they calculate our total benefit package. For someone to arbitrarily list my salary at least $65,000 higher than what I actually see in my paycheck in a year is comical. "

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to oh wrote on Dec 3, 2007 7:19 PM:

" Oh, are you saying that a police officer shouldn't get paid $170K? I would agree if it were cash under the table... but how much of this number is health benefits, sick leave, vacation, insurance, overtime, retirement? "

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point of clarification wrote on Dec 3, 2007 7:13 PM:

" mcg, I don't know what youre smoking. are you saying somebody who is making 60k has to pay 30k in taxes? I looked it up, your person's marginal tax rate is 15%, no more. I think only the top 1% or so of people in the nation are in the '50%' tax bracket. "

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HHMMM... wrote on Dec 3, 2007 6:26 PM:

" I think its funny how Mr. King and other top salary positions Keep geting raise's and still want more tax money to help with "Building a better community" yet they keep cutting maintenance staff and service's. Street dept. has less employees now than in the 1970's yet the town has tripled in size. How can we provide customer service without service workers? "

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To Searching wrote on Dec 3, 2007 6:02 PM:

" Jim Pinkerton was a fair man and supported workers, I don't know if he was pro-union, but he was pro-Lodi, pro-family. Hire people who give a damn about Lodi. Half on the list are not union jobs. The council supporting unions, that's a joke. They don't require contractors to be union, which is why the downtown refurbish is crumbling (pavers and sidewalks) why the fire building on the east side is a tear down, why city buildings are a mess (ask the library) we have non-union Diede Construction to thank for a lot crap in Lodi! "

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Max Stanfield wrote on Dec 3, 2007 5:39 PM:

" CC Bobby Johnson says "...Lodi's salaries are in the mid-range compared with other cities in the area. I am well aware how these comparable salary studies are done, having been involved with them for years. My question: Are cities who pay below the mid-range, the median, the midpoint, having any problems attracting highly paid employees ? Answer, NO ! "

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To All wrote on Dec 3, 2007 5:26 PM:

" The Unions is what built this Country you love. Pipe fitters, ironworkers, miners, road workers, police, fire, ect. ect. ask your grandparents and great grandparents Union Made proud to be an american. Go down to city hall ask for a job app. "

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Searching wrote on Dec 3, 2007 2:56 PM:

" Where's Jim Pinkerton when you need him? He'd take care of these employee wages and teach the unions a thing or two while he's at it. "

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Ticked wrote on Dec 3, 2007 12:21 PM:

" Hey Oh, you need to educate yourself. Go to your employer (assuming you have a career and don't work at McD's) and ask how much is your total compensation. This should include any 401K's, insurance, other retirements, sick leave and vacation. You may be suprised. If you don't have these things then go back to school and get a real job. "

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mcg wrote on Dec 3, 2007 12:09 PM:

" Ah I see the city employees are upset that I hit a nerve. Anyone over 60K per year is in the 50% tax bracket. Go add it up. As far as underpaid employees complaining. Maybe not this article but just about every year some public employee union is complaining. The latest was the prison guards who didn't want to accept the 15% raise being forced upon them. As far as my rant, if you don't understand it, you will be subject to it. "

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T & C wrote on Dec 3, 2007 11:25 AM:

" So your explanation for these wages for a city that's broke and miserable with no money is that they'll go to the private sector to seek higher wages? If so then why don't they? You know why? Then they'd really have to WORK and not have their lap dogs and gofers do their dirty work for them. For the financial shape Lodi is in these salaries are absurd. If you'd just attend or watch the CC meetings bi-monthly and watch them when they're asked a question, if it's not pre-programmed or on their computer, they have no idea. "

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think about it wrote on Dec 3, 2007 11:16 AM:

" Mcg, if you're truly in the 50% tax bracket then shut up. Obviously you make way more than any of your follow taxpayers listed in the paper. Stop and think where the city would be without the professional police department and fire department we enjoy now. "

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oh wrote on Dec 3, 2007 11:02 AM:

" How many days off paid will these City workers have this month?How much will really get done?And it is not just this month it's year round Christmas!It's just this month they have a excuse!Cops needed to be paid up to a point!But 170 for lower ranking seems to be alittle much!There is risk at alot of jobs that are not public servants!Most cops like there work even if the pay was half of what it is! "

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to mcg wrote on Dec 3, 2007 10:58 AM:

" 1)Public employees pay taxes too. 2)There was NOT ONE QUOTE in the article from an employee complaining they are underpaid and 3) Don't drive on the roads, use electricity, call for police or fire.....because YOU think you are above having to pay for these. "Those that have guns make the rules"...what idiotic rant is that about? "

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oh wrote on Dec 3, 2007 10:47 AM:

" Did you people see the news where there THOUSANDS of people trying to get a Fire Department job in Oakland,ca?Thousands were turned away!They almost rioted!23 jobs and in Oakland! "

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mcg wrote on Dec 3, 2007 10:34 AM:

" Paying 50% of what I make in taxes, unreasonable; Having public employees tell me they are underpaid, outrageous; having elected officials pander to those public employee unions, criminal; Bending over and grabbing my ankles at tax time: priceless Those that have the guns make the rules. remember that when they come to take your money. "

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To Lodian wrote on Dec 3, 2007 8:08 AM:

" Having 60,000+ "taxpaying bosses"; unreasonable, Reading uneducated rants from citizens; inexcusable, Seeing your name in print which in turn neccesitates explanation; embarrasing, Knowing that you give your heart and soul as a public servant to some who lack gratitude; priceless. "

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2¢ wrote on Dec 3, 2007 7:53 AM:

" GOB=Good Ol' Boy(s) "

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Lodian wrote on Dec 3, 2007 7:49 AM:

" LODIAN29: The library should have more computers... computers with online access. "

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galt citizen wrote on Dec 3, 2007 6:46 AM:

" Instead of paying the police officers overtime, why don't we use that money to hire more police officers? Doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out. Stop trying to force more taxes onto us in an economy where we can barely pay our house payment and fill up our gas tanks. Say NO to the upcoming bond measure to increase sales tax to fund more police officers. we already have the funds in our budget, we just need to spend more wisely "

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Makes you go Hmmmm wrote on Dec 3, 2007 2:07 AM:

" The national median income for an office manager is $66,000. Police Sergeant is 63,412 - $77,078. What are you all screaming about. warehouse manager in our area, about 60 -75K. Seems pretty in line you people are all stupid. as for the pension, when you put your butt on the line for 30 years, responding to the emergencies of citizens only to have them blog about how worthless you are, then you too can enjoy the only perk of a thankless job "

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The numbers dont lie like the LNS wrote on Dec 3, 2007 1:03 AM:

" this is what a police Lt. makes $75,935.88 - $92,300.40 annually straight from the city web site. A far cry from what you reported. This is what a police LT makes people!! Pre-tax. Not an extreme amount for an upper level manager public or private. "

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to Cogito wrote on Dec 2, 2007 10:37 PM:

" if you r to remind of us deeds, then get them right "

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extranthifer wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:27 PM:

" A lot of the information that students find online is biased and incorrect. Wikipedia is a major example of this. That's why teachers request information from books with established, authoritative sources. The library provides this - and more. Ask the seniors who aren't tech savvy how valuable the library is. "

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Hey Lodian wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:15 PM:

" Doesn't the city employee pay taxes too? Don't they work for a living too? Don't they and their families have a right to privicy too? Post the position, not the name. This is nothing more than a witch hunt because people dislike and resent paying taxes. Take it out on the elected officials, not the men and women on the street. Shame on you, they are your neighbors and friends, not the enemy. "

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jumptoconclusions wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:04 PM:

" Joke, its not a year to date figure they printed, it represents the fiscal year...probably ending in july. Maybe the LNS could clarify for you. "

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skewed numbers wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:00 PM:

" The CIty of Galt CM earned $194044 in nine mnths and the Lodi CM earned $218643 in twelve. add thrre months salary to Galt CM Salary and his yearly salary is $258725. Way to go Lodi and pay $40,000 less a year for a CM and then complain he is overpaid. "

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Lodian wrote on Dec 2, 2007 6:50 PM:

" I think to be critical of a city employees salary is different than if one whines about how much someone else makes every year. A city employee is getting paid through what WE contribute... our tax dollars. We have every right to scrutinize what they are getting paid and how well they are doing their job. They work for US! (supposedly) "

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To: To Allen wrote on Dec 2, 2007 6:44 PM:

" Just about ALL research that students do is online...thus making the library obsolete for all but those who are not tech savy. I do go to the library and see that most attendees are kids screwing around and librarians doing nothing about it...just baby-sitting...and for that we are paying ONE guy over $90,000...ha ha ha joke's on us... "

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LODIAN29 wrote on Dec 2, 2007 5:25 PM:

" Libraries? Who needs libraries with the internet? "

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Salvador Ibanez wrote on Dec 2, 2007 5:11 PM:

" What is a GOB ????????. i know you have to condense your rants to make them qualify in space, but many of you people's acronyms make no sense to us very simple people. "

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Major Ben Johnson wrote on Dec 2, 2007 5:09 PM:

" Reading these blogs i see many enbarrased city employees, a bunch from the tin foil hat crowd who see surreptitiousness in any activity, hate the LNS--whatever good it does, and "good ol' boy" losers who never worked an honest day in their lives. Good job Marty, Rich, and the LNS. It is my money and with their retirements, it will only get more expensive for less work. multiply by every city in californicating. The reaction from the minor-pinhead-bloggers shows that you are on the right track. "

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JustTheFacts wrote on Dec 2, 2007 4:49 PM:

" At the very least, Jeff Hood would have to get some experience as one of the highly paid department heads to have an outside track to the CM position. As an example, Dixon Flynn was the Finance Director prior to being CM. Okay... not the greatest example per se, but these are the most common career paths to CM positions. "

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JustTheFacts wrote on Dec 2, 2007 4:44 PM:

" Regarding the rumor that Jeff Hood is being groomed to move in as the next City Manager... TRUST ME... nothing is farther from the truth. He'd have to garner some experience as a Deputy CM or Asst CM somewhere before he'd even come close to being considered. "

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observation wrote on Dec 2, 2007 2:38 PM:

" most in Lodi didn't work to be winners. Grandpa and grandma and mommy and daddy gave it to them. those're the rich greedy families here that want more and more. And since when is duping and cheating others considered work? "

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To: Allen wrote on Dec 2, 2007 1:12 PM:

" Allen, if you truly believe the library is a "graveyard," I challenge you to go there after school to see how busy it is. The library performs an invalueable service to the community. Ask the teachers, parents and just plain citizens who go there every day. When is the last time you were at the library, Allen? "

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money, money wrote on Dec 2, 2007 12:40 PM:

" many of our loudmouth, overbearing and rude transit drivers are grossly overpaid. some even drive like they took that one-day drivers' course "

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lotsa jobs wrote on Dec 2, 2007 12:05 PM:

" Blair King and John Beckman are having a contest to see who can hold the most jobbs in ten years. Ask the CC for his resume and past job references and count em'. "

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To just the facts wrote on Dec 2, 2007 11:55 AM:

" They're priming Jeff Hood to take over soon as city manager, when the many misdealings of this city manager are revealed slowly but surely. Hope the rumors are true. It's time for a positive change. "

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to oh uh wrote on Dec 2, 2007 11:47 AM:

" You ain't seen nuthin' yet. This new Cherokee Lane redevelopment will end up paying both Geweke and Chase dealerships down with the others off Kettleman. They were going to move anyway but now with redevelopment, we the taxpayers are going to give them the land and buy their new buildings. This is just a minute part of the redevelopment plan. You just listen up this time.Another Blair King master plan for that large salary. "

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to oh wrote on Dec 2, 2007 11:46 AM:

" You ain't seen nuthin' yet. This new Cherokee Lane redevelopment will end up paying both Geweke and Chase dealerships down with the others off Kettleman. They were going to move anyway but now with redevelopment, we the taxpayers are going to give them the land and buy their new buildings. This is just a minute part of the redevelopment plan. You just listen up this time.Another Blair King master plan for that large salary. "

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Observation wrote on Dec 2, 2007 11:31 AM:

" Take note that nearly every one of the people whining about compensation levels, are the same people that whine on virtually every LNS blog. Especially if it has to do with persons who have been successful in their profession. They make too much money, are GOB, know GOB, are business owners, developers, etc., etc. Instead of working to be a winner, they chose to be a whiner. "

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To Fairly Compensated wrote on Dec 2, 2007 10:42 AM:

" What Marty and Rich make is a different story, they are not being paid from tax dollars like the city manager. When we okayed his position, he came at 140k a year and no raises until the city was out of debt. Well the city is still in debt and he now makes over 218k a year. Yet all other depts have frozed and unfilled budgeted positions. Who really makes Lodi Work. Once King gets his stats up, he'll be gone just like the rest of them. "

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To The Critics wrote on Dec 2, 2007 9:58 AM:

" I take it from reading the comments that most feel King and other managers are paid too much and yet there is no comparison. Others feel King and others do not earn their pay. So if King were gone do you expect to find someone better and pay this person less? Doesn't King earn far less than other city managers? If this is true what are we complaining about? "

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Joke wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:56 AM:

" Richard Hanner if you want accurate numbers ask for the list of compensation from the W-2"s after they are published in January 2008 for 2007. "

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JustTheFacts wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:55 AM:

" Personally, I do wish that they would rein in Mr. King's salary. Maybe that would prompt him to start looking for work elsewhere sooner rather than later. Lodi is but a notch on his career belt and I would love to see him move a few notches down the road. "

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Joke wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:53 AM:

" Even the total compensation numbers are misleading. It is obvious that the numbers reflect year to date earlier this year...like September maybe. With total compensation police and fire would have exceeded Blair King in total compensation for the year. Same old News Sentinel. "

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JustTheFacts wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:52 AM:

" Please go to the City webpage and under "City Departments" click on Human Resources. You'll see another link to JobSpecs/Salary/Benefits. That's what you need to compare the lowest employee salary to the highest. "

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I wonder wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:53 PM:

" I wonder why the LNS did not publish the base salaries of the top earners. Would not have as much shock value if people knew what they really took home. LNS makes me sick with their slant on the news "

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Lets all just take a chill pill wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:49 PM:

" You need to realize that the salaries listed are double what the employee actually sees in his check. The city has added sick leave earned, holiday pay earned and an average of the overtime others have earned Even though the employee has not used any sick time or holiday pay. The numbers are bogus and you all need to settle down. Didn't even metion that they added in insurance, retirement contributions and other "PAY" the employee never sees. "

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unbelievable wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:49 PM:

" How is it anybodies business to know the names of the people and their associated compensation. Sure, public monies, right to know, I understand that. But the names as well, why not just listing the position with wages? Lets not forget these people are citizens as well with an expectation of privacy. Perhaps some bloggers would like to list their names and W-2 in this forum for all to see and look you up in the phone book "

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Aunt Bernice wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:09 PM:

" My point is that there should exist a maximum spread between the highest and lowest compensation...like 50%. Not the 470% spread...that's criminal (in my opinion) "

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Allen wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:09 PM:

" "Library Services Director" - $90,036!!! You're kidding, right?...That Library is a graveyard...nobody goes...nobody checks stuff out...Only the retired readng newspapers for free...close it and no one would notice... "

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Aunt Bernice wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:07 PM:

" It's a shame that citizens lump all City employees into the "overpaid" category. "

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Aunt Bernice wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:05 PM:

" One employee I knew qualified for "low income" (welfare) help through the county. "

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Aunt Bernice wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:04 PM:

" There are about 500 City employees and some of 'em barely earn more than the federal poverty level. "

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Aunt Bernice wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:02 PM:

" The City Manager's compensation is 470% higher than the Administrative Clerk. "

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oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:39 PM:

" Half of these people have a title that is just not worthy of one!It is to yank us for more money!This is out of control and needs to change!If we want are City to improve then we need to cut this back!But they want to grow larger so they can try to get more out of us!That is not what the people want!Stay small cost are less!You see that is why we can't get them to stop the growth!Simple as that! "

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oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:31 PM:

" Just add these base pay up its totaly out of reason!These pepole are not work very hard!It's a joke!And it is on are backs!And they don't want you to know about their (DEFINED BENEFITS)at the end!They can't save enough of their pay or don't to retire!They want to screw us all the way to the end!And then some with thier wifes and husbands to the end!And for or alot of things we don't even like! "

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T & C wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:18 PM:

" Dig deep enough and you'll find that the Geweke and Snider family are the city council. Right Hansen, Hitchcock, Katzakian and mayor? bob? "

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oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:18 PM:

" These people don't want us to know what they get from us!Because they know dam well that it is totaly unbeleavable abuse of public money!And these people think thay deserve this kind of pay!That is truly sick!These Fire Chiefs are getting fear pay and so are there indians!Maybe now you people can see why they are so generous! Couldn't we all be with pay like that?And not only the Fire Department! "

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Cogito wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:06 PM:

" Whats up with all these people defending Mounce? Isn't she the one who fought so hard to get the "In God We Trust" motto emblazoned on the council walls? Then later, said we need to find a way to kick the homeless out of the parks? Someone needs to remind her that God pays more attention to deeds than words. We're all Gods children, even the homeless. Maybe she planned to let them live at her house. If she did, then I stand corrected. "

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oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:03 PM:

" To To Oh-Do I need to answer that?This is what gets me who cares what any other City pays!It is what we want to pay these people or better put can affored!I don't think that these people should be paid more then it cost to live comfortable!And I will put it this way I don't like what he has done since he has been here! "

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Cogito wrote on Dec 1, 2007 7:49 PM:

" What people are failing to notice here is that the city, or PERS, will be on the hook for all these high paying retirements. The PD will get 90% of their last two years salary after 30 years. Most officers are retiring in their early to mid 50s. That's a lot of money for a lot of years. I doubt the firemens package is much different. When these funds run short, they'll be digging in your pockets to pay the difference. NOW you should be outraged. Public unions at work! "

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oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 7:12 PM:

" to-Geweke-Thats a different topic,But I can tell you that the land owner to begin with did not want to give that property to the City or the State!How the road was change in the manner it was puzzles me!Maybe you can figure out why I have such feelings about the City?The redevelopment of the east side of town will be a desaster!With dictators from the City!Big mistake if it happens! "

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fools gold wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:49 PM:

" You people defending these salaries must be the ones drawing them! "

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Fairly compensated City Employee wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:39 PM:

" WOW LNS, You made a BIG (NON)story out of information that has been available on the City of Lodi's website for years. No one has been hiding this information. Not one of you people complaining about Management's salaries has any idea of how hard the City Manager works and how many hours he really puts in...I work there, I know. Maybe instead of complaining about the salaries, you should apply for a job there, it is a great place to work! BTW, How much do you make Marty and Rich? "

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OTH wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:36 PM:

" That should have been Morrow. "

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Good Ole' Boys Cont... wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:35 PM:

" Next thing you're gonna tell me that teachers are underpaid - sorry. And Stockton or other valley cities are not comparable. Compare these salaries to cities in other states that have a HIGHER crime rate and then tell me what is fair ... Time to take back our tax dollars. "

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OTH wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:35 PM:

" Everybody but Vallow buys power in this town. Why do we need him? "

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God Ole Boys Indeed wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:31 PM:

" Here we go with the oh police and fire provide an invaluable service ... wa wa wa. It isn't like being a 'first responder' takes an awful lot of intelligence or schooling. Not that I have anything against police or firefighters but lets be honest. "

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Typical wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:21 PM:

" I've heard that the GOBs are going to try and bypass minnie mounce - that's only happened twice if memory serves. Davenport and Howard. We need a change on that Council and Mounce is the person to do it, but all of us little people in Lodi need to speak up and go to the meeting on Wednesday next week on the 5th. We only have ourselves to blame if we let them get away with giving minnie mounce the high hat! "

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Wow! wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:16 PM:

" Thirteen of the top 20 are Police and Fire and they only have to work until they are 50 years old to retire with up to 100% of their pre-retirement pay! Take that Transit Union! "

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Balance wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:14 PM:

" Let's see some private industry wages of managers at Farmers and Merchants Bank, a few Docs and Dentists, Accountants, consultants, CEO, truck drivers, car salesmen, school administrators, garbage workers, and maybe even waiters or even Marty Wiebret's last tax return! "

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To LNS wrote on Dec 1, 2007 6:00 PM:

" All you have succeeded in doing is demoralize a number of city employees who "give their heart and soul" to this community. They will be spending the next month having to justify to everyone their salaries. This information should have been presented in a more balanced fashion......Even the headline was biased when it suggested that these salaries are "Big"...according to whom? Sounds like it should have been given as an op ed piece. "

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Dixon Headson wrote on Dec 1, 2007 5:18 PM:

" Dixon Flynn and his buddies Hayes, Donovan, Land and Vallow financially crippled the city through mismanagement of the groundwater contaminatiion suit and poor judgement regarding power purchases. King and Hitchcock in my opinion deserve more credit for getting us on track. Hansen and Johnson have had a positive effect as well. Whomever thinks Joanne will be passed over as mayor is wrong. "

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Whoa Nellie! wrote on Dec 1, 2007 5:07 PM:

" Management does not get overtime pay, but they do get 'time off' for mandatory meetings after 5pm like the CCmtgs. When I retired 5yrs ago I was making $75-90K depending upon performance. Surely the CEO of the City should make twice my pay. It's the PD & FD overtime that makes me sick. "

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Lodi citizen wrote on Dec 1, 2007 4:21 PM:

" Why is it top of front page headlines what City employees' salaries are? This info has been on the City's web site and other sites dealing with CA city employee compensation for years. What is news about this? Why does the LNS continue to 'manufacture' news? Ever compare what constitutes news in the LNS vs. Record? You don't find this manipulated garbage in the Record. "

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Way Out wrote on Dec 1, 2007 3:22 PM:

" I thought a year ago they told us the city was in dire financial straights and that Hitchcock was looking after the ship. So much for looking after the ship. The rats will start leaving soon. Maybe someone should look into Hitchcocks financial status "

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killio wrote on Dec 1, 2007 2:41 PM:

" CS I call BS. This tired old line of putting their life on the line is BS. The supreme court has ruled the police have no obligation to protect citizens and Firefighters don't have to run into burning buildings if they think their life is in danger. Every person who leaves there home to go to work everyday is "putting there life on the line" by getting into traffic. No one forces these people to do their job. "

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Geweke wrote on Dec 1, 2007 2:03 PM:

" Another GOB of King's thats why the city traded prime city property of the freeway for him to build another car lot and hotel and we got his lower priced property in back of it for a even trade. rich get richer way to go Vote mounce for mayor stop the GOB's "

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No.1 wrote on Dec 1, 2007 1:58 PM:

" 7-Police 6-Fire 7-City Hall all make between 218k-165k whats wrong with this picture. They are trying to Pass up Mounce for Mayor this term because she looks out for Lodi's better intrest. Go to the council meeting Dec.5 and ask why! "

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Maintenance Worker wrote on Dec 1, 2007 1:50 PM:

" Do you see the line between the Money hungry overpaid city hall employees who give each other raises yearly and the then the one's that "Make Lodi work" who havent even got a cost of living ajustment in years to keep up with Lodi's inflated living. We pay for our health benny's and retirement. Dont blame the Indian's when the chiefs take all your Money to waste. "

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killio wrote on Dec 1, 2007 12:33 PM:

" I love all the people who don't think this is news or don't find anything out of line here. I guess that should be expected since 1 out of 5 working people work for the govt. I just love paying my taxes and getting nothing it return except to be told that I am not paying enough for people to get more vacation than I do and a better benefits package. 50% is high enough... "

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CS wrote on Dec 1, 2007 12:25 PM:

" I cannot speak for the other jobs/salaries listed, but I know that you don't complain about salaries when fire or police personnel arrive in response to your 911 call! When there is a fire/medical/security emergency at your home... you can't put a price on the service they provide... you can't compare a desk job to a job where the employee puts his/her life on the line every day! "

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fyi wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:56 AM:

" oh, get your story straight. minnie mounce did not vote for upper management raises. and certainly not blair's rate. "

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must remove wool from over head... wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:45 AM:

" slow news day eh ? This is not news. you're all being manipulated. they list total compensation for the highest jobs and then sample the middle to lower jobs as base salary to exacerbate the difference. Do you see any senior city workers base salary in those charts ? why do you think that is. Always question those who question. Use your brains. "

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T & C wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:39 AM:

" It doesn't matter what other cities make. This city went broke under King, Hansen and Hitchcock's reign. So he deserves that kind of salary for taking part? We're still not out of the dark financially and if you can't see your city leaders throwing money around like water to their own greedy little clique, then you're truly blind. "

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Go Flames wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:34 AM:

" No one's used the term "good ol' boys" yet. I'm disappointed. Some citizens want the best officers and firefighters they can get but don't want to pay a wage comparable to other cities of similar size. Which is it? Save money or higher quality employees? Can't have it both ways. "

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to lodunews.com wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:33 AM:

" How about a follow-up in your paper next week listing all of these accomplishments Mr. King and these other high paid slackers have done for the CITIZENS of Lodi. We know they've benefitted the developers, builders, realtors and the two extremely wealthy families in Lodi. They've benefitted businesses, namely motel and restaurant businesses owned by one of the gob's, but what have they accomplished for the CITIZENS? The new old folks home on RR avenue in the slums? Nope, another gob gimme. "

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to dave wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:26 AM:

" so these overpaid positions require like pay of similar cities? Are those other cities floundering financially and socially, as Lodi is? I think not. Why should they be treated any better than other unorganized city or private employees? Mediocrity shouldn't pay the same as success, or as in Lodi, many failures that bankrupted this town. Mr> King is just an overpaid money shuffling corporate accountant. "

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To Oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:24 AM:

" How much should King be paid? What should be the comparison? How does his salary stack up against Stockton, Manteca, Tracy, Ripon and Galt? Do you know? "

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oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:08 AM:

" To- Fair-How about the City be Fair to the public?This is something that every body in town dislikes about these City people!We need to change the way we pay these people!King is not worth that kind of money.How many ghost employees do we have on the payroll? "

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pluto wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:55 AM:

" hey t/c it appears that minnie mounce has voted for all these pay raises that you whine about. what gives? "

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To: LNS wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:51 AM:

" This is another fine example of irresponsible journalism. This is not a story, this is vouerism. The article the Stockton Record did on salaries was well put together and offered insight as to why the salaries appear to be so high. You have failed to deliver and in the process only created public outrage. "

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Also To: Dave wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:39 AM:

" Dave, alot of the positions listed are salaried employees and do not get overtime. The public safety positions listed certainly do get overtime, but there is a "Minimum staffing" that must be met daily. When officers and firefighters are off do to vacation, sick, etc., another officer must be called into work. Before you make broad uneducated statements, check the facts! "

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oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:29 AM:

" Tell us how come the City of Lodi can not clean up the East side of town!Tell us how come you want the City to get bigger!Isn't it because they will want more pay?Because it is bigger?And they can hide the realy problem about things!! "

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Fair wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:24 AM:

" Even the title of your article indicates you have not done your homework LNS. Post Lodi employee's salaries in comparison to those in the salary surveys. They don't make "Big Bucks". "

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Machiavelli wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:21 AM:

" The total compensation numbers provided by the City of Lodi are NOT accurate! I pointed out errors a year ago to the HR Dept. and NOBODY cares. The numbers are over-inflated and WRONG. Apparenlty Matt Brown is the only reporter in America who trusts accounting numbers from a government agency w/o double-checking the facts. NOTE FROM RICH HANNER, EDITOR: If you have evidence these numbers are skewed, contact me or city editor Andrew Adams at 369-7035 or e-mail me at richardh@lodinews.com. We'd be quite interested. "

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OTH wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:13 AM:

" How can laborers A&B even afford to live here? Is it even minimum wage? "

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oh wrote on Dec 1, 2007 10:08 AM:

" Now does this make you sick or what?And belive me they are not over worked!Holidays,sick days,vacation days,everyother friday off,special lunches,paid time to learn on how do do there job!It goes on(THE BIG ONE DEFINED BENEFITS)Hey!LNS-Print how that works for the public to know what it is about! "

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T & C wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:53 AM:

" Every penny that is being spent in at least the last five years has come from the LEUD and been wasted, taken, given away and the only source of monies to keep Lodi financially solvent. LEUD has always been a cash cow for the city and is a great source of revenue, but tapping it to bail Hansen and Hitchcock out on that bad power buy is straining us today. Where's the accountability for the problems here? They either move on or get "fired" and retire comfortably. Check the last city your manager got run out of. "

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To Dave wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:41 AM:

" Exactly which positions give you heartburn and while you're at it, how much should that person earn? Lastly, should Lodi pay at the bottom of the scale or be competitive with like-kind cities? "

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T & C wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:39 AM:

" City Council, I thought Mr. King worked for you and I, not being his own boss. You agree wtih him on every monetary issue, except JoAnne who thinks for herself. When are you other four pathetic members going to do the same instead of grouping together with the gob's? I now hear the ex-chiefs' name mentioned with San Joaquin Land trying to buy land near Delta College. You need to institute the new accounting method suggested by Ms. Mounce that accounts for every penny and will show who's double dipping. That 2006 audit still needs to be "fixed", too. "

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pay gap? wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:35 AM:

" This is insane. The private sector comes no where close to these packages. How can a City Mgr. go from 140,000. to 219,000. in less than three years? I am very concerned for the lack of executive over sight. This is stealing from tax payers. Return our money please. "

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T&CII wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:33 AM:

" Why doesn't Lodi take care of their employees that do the work for the deskmen? Lodi can't afford to hire anyone for maintenance, parks&rec, and the utility department, although there are several openings there for at least a year, but keep crying broke. There's something wrong here that needs to be fixed. How many homes will Gillespie and Doucette sell to $33,000 a year incomes? They need to do their part, too with the overpaid Chamber paidstaff and bring some quality jobs here for all to share, not just the Lodi controllers. "

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T & C wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:32 AM:

" Why doesn't Lodi take care of their employees that do the work for the deskmen? Lodi can't afford to hire anyone for maintenance, parks&rec, and the utility department, although there are several openings there for at least a year, but keep crying broke. There's something wrong here that needs to be fixed. How many homes will Gillespie and Doucette sell to $33,000 a year incomes? They need to do their part, too with the overpaid Chamber paidstaff and bring some quality jobs here for all to share, not just the Lodi controllers. "

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to blair wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:25 AM:

" That doesn't count any of your "dealins" for those free meals and drinks, weekend getaways, and vacations offered by your "business associates" both here in Lodi and from the bay area. I didn't know Lodi and Galt paid such high salaries while their working class has to work five yeaers to get a two dollar raise. But it's nice you all work together and vote one another these absurd raises when your performance quality is not very good. "

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killio wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:21 AM:

" I have tried to bring this to light for years, but no one wanted to hear about it. Those poor underpaid overworked city employees...boo hoo. These wages are obscene and the way they are calculated are assine. They remind me of criminals saying I'm not guilty because he did much worse than me. Both are wrong and the logic does not work. These wages are the highest for jobs in this city. Here is you budget problem in a nutshell. "

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T & C wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:20 AM:

" If we're paying the city administrators and LPD & LFD chiefs that much money, where's the performance that's supposed to come along with it? "

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Typical wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:57 AM:

" Does anyone see the irony in the Transit Workers that failed to unionize making $12 an hour vs these government employees that are unionized making some of these salaries? The LNS editorial question about why the Transit Workers failed to unionized can be summed up in one word "FEAR". The city spokesperson's indifference to those transit workers was interesting - he got his, they are on their own. "

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Fair wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:43 AM:

" So LNS, what is the purpose of publishing base salary only and total compensation for managers? Makes it look like the managers are paid extrememly high and line personnel are not. Why not post total compensation averages for them as well or break down total compensation for managers. The true fact is that City of Lodi employees are at the median when it comes to pay of comparable cities. "

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more money wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:43 AM:

" Cops should still get paid more. GIVE TILL IT HURTS!! "

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to dave wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:42 AM:

" that is not all overtime. the total comes from health insurance, retirement contibutions and other benefits. "

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WY wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:38 AM:

" Consultant # uno.... 1,000,000,000.00 Consultant #2....... 2,000,000.00 Consultant #3....... 900,000.00 etc...blah blah blah. 200,000.00 is a lot of frick'n cash! nice life. That must be that four year college. So why all the consulting? "

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To DAVE wrote on Dec 1, 2007 8:31 AM:

" Dont be an idiot... Hiring more people doesn't save money, it cost more money. Its cheaper to pay OT, than it is to hire another employee and pay their salary, med benefits, retirement, etc. "

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dave wrote on Dec 1, 2007 7:08 AM:

" The difference between the base and actual salaries are obscene.If there is that much overtime,,another person should be hired. Its time to fight back ! "

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