Indexes
November 21st, 2009
November 20th, 2009
November 19th, 2009
November 18th, 2009
November 17th, 2009
November 16th, 2009
November 14th, 2009
The following stories have received the most reader comments during the last 7 days.
- The country's mess is our fault (170)
- Obama is not a moderate (130)
- Sarah Palin's book hits the shelves: Locals react (73)
- Public health care is a Christian option (62)
- Lodi City Council plans to cap number of taco trucks at 22 (50)
- The haves should help the have-nots (30)
- Tokay in, traveling to unbeaten No. 3 Grant for football playoffs (25)
- Government-run health care is a bad idea (24)
- Young woman fatally shot at Acampo home (18)
- Sierra Adventure store to close after four years in Downtown Lodi (16)
ADVERTISEMENT
Timing OK for raise?
Most on Lodi council would like pay hike
Lodi City Council members want to talk about a pay raise, for themselves.
Members are paid $500 a month, but haven't gotten an increase since 1990.
The topic will likely be discussed at the council's next regular meeting, March 19, at Carnegie Forum.
Four of the five council members said Thursday they're ready for at least a slight bump in pay.
Councilman Bob Johnson raised the idea last month, noting the job is much more involved today than in years past.
"I know there are going to be those that question 'Is this the wrong time,' or 'that Johnson is being greedy,"' he said. "I just want to get the dialogue going."
Council members cited their long meetings and the many community activities they attend as reasons to increase pay. Some noted they often make donations at the many fundraisers they attend.
They are compensated for both travel and training expenses.
Several council members estimated they spend a minimum of 20 hours per week on city matters, everything from fielding phone calls about potholes to reading up on new development projects.
Others, like Larry Hansen, said the position is often a full-time job.
"People joke with me that I'm making 25 cents an hour," he said.
While she said she's willing to talk about a pay increase, Mayor JoAnne Mounce said she's not keen on approving one.
"I think there are many other pressing matters to discuss ... than talking about increases to our pay," she said. "It's just poor timing."
Councilwoman Susan Hitchcock noted she doesn't want to see a drastic raise, but would entertain "a small increase."
Cities with a population between 50,000 and 75,0000 residents can pay council members $500 a month, said Jeff Hood, the city's spokesman. They can increase the pay 5 percent each year.
Galt City Council members: $300 per month. Council members split $17,000 in compensation for travel and training. The mayor gets $6,000, the remaining council members get $4,000 each.
Manteca City Council members: $500 per month
Stockton City Council members: $23,927.40 per year, with no benefits. Mayor of Stockton: $82,088.52 per year, plus health, dental and vision benefits, or the cash equivalent. Because Stockton is a charter city, it sets its compensation rates differently than other cities in the state.
— Sources: City clerk offices in Galt, Manteca and Stockton
Manteca City Council members: $500 per month
Stockton City Council members: $23,927.40 per year, with no benefits. Mayor of Stockton: $82,088.52 per year, plus health, dental and vision benefits, or the cash equivalent. Because Stockton is a charter city, it sets its compensation rates differently than other cities in the state.
— Sources: City clerk offices in Galt, Manteca and Stockton
The Lodi council can bump its pay retroactively for each of the past 17 years, Hood said. That would set council members pay at $925 per month.
Hansen suggested a citizens committee might be the best body to determine a council pay raise.
His colleagues acknowledged Johnson is taking a risk by initiating the pay raise during a lean budget year, the same year he's up for re-election.
They concurred, however, that it's a topic long overdue for discussion.
Three council members have full-time jobs, including Mounce who is an accountant, Hitchcock who is a school principal and Phil Katzakian who is the president of Lodi Printing. Hansen is a retired Lodi police chief and Johnson is semi-retired real estate appraiser.
"It doesn't really matter to me," Katzakian said of the pay raise issue. "I understand (Johnson's) point for sure. I don't know about the timing. He's the one running for re-election."
Katzakian noted he would likely approve a small increase should the matter go to a vote.
Hansen said there's a very basic reason past councils have avoided the issue.
"I think part of it is they've been reluctant to deal with any potential public wrath," he said. "So, we've never brought it up."
Contact reporter Chris Nichols at chrisn@lodinews.com.
Search for Ads 
Today’s Print Ads 
RSS Feeds
Reader Feedback
Bry wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:36 PM:
JustTheFacts wrote on Mar 15, 2008 3:49 PM:
WY wrote on Mar 15, 2008 9:47 AM:
Observer wrote on Mar 15, 2008 9:16 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 15, 2008 8:29 AM:
So on to the pigs and caped dogs!We'd all like to stand up straight and not take it in the rear from this CC group. Maybe a CONSULTANT would help. "
WY wrote on Mar 15, 2008 8:19 AM:
There are a few of us that joke with in. Skip over it. wah! "
LodiJoe wrote on Mar 15, 2008 6:58 AM:
falcon wrote on Mar 15, 2008 6:45 AM:
wdsjr wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:14 PM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:59 PM:
Fruitful47 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:48 PM:
awobs wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:42 PM:
T & C wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:05 PM:
"
T & C wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:57 PM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:50 PM:
If it is truly because they believe they’re underpaid, I wonder why they aren't asking for $2,000/month. Now that would make more sense to me.
Would an increase of $425 be that substantial? Perhaps. But it just seems 'fishy.' "
OTH wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:19 PM:
Lodi is looking at a mess with their bond situation. Granted it wouldn't be a large amount to a lot of money, but could we wait and see how that goes? "
s & W 500 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 7:52 PM:
But the trade would have to be 4LPD to BITE CRIME WITH JAWS, not lil' niblets beinwimpy "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 7:02 PM:
There's no doubt that I'm well-known for my desire and ability to engage in rigorous debate. And while I'm not perfect, I have tried to back up my opinions not only on the issues, but on the folks who render those opinions as well. And yeah, I enjoy ‘arguing’.
However, I still don't understand your stated opinion of me, not that it really matters at all. "
Whoa Nellie! wrote on Mar 14, 2008 6:53 PM:
mp wrote on Mar 14, 2008 6:42 PM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 6:30 PM:
When or where have I insinuated that the City Council lacked love for Lodi or that they would not help anyone who asked?
Where did this come from?
I simply question the motive behind the request for the raise. I also defined why I ask the question. If you have a problem with that, fine. If you have an answer for that, even better. "
mp wrote on Mar 14, 2008 6:11 PM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 4:49 PM:
I think they're just following the lead of the State and Federal governments. Review themselves and objectively decide how much more money they should receive. Then vote on it themselves.
No matter how I've looked at it, this method of deciding salaries has always seemed perverted to me. "
wtf wrote on Mar 14, 2008 3:30 PM:
That one threw me, too. I don't think buss owner read the posts all the way through and was/is confused when we went off topic about wiener dogs and flying pigs.
I think he might have thought we were calling the CC flying pigs, wazoos or wieners. LOL!
"
Mad Dog wrote on Mar 14, 2008 2:25 PM:
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 1:50 PM:
kes wrote on Mar 14, 2008 1:08 PM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 12:46 PM:
Recent history indicates that this is certainly no longer the case. Sure, many run for an office with claims of being 'privileged' to serve; and 'honored' to be elected by the people. Reality is that once elected, those once 'honored' by the opportunity become the 'honorees' by their own inflated egos and greed. "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 12:40 PM:
Two questions:
1. Is sitting on these committees a requirement of being a Council Member? That is, when deciding to run, does a potential candidate know that he/she will be required to perform these duties?
2. Just how does one compensate 'recognition?' Is this the problem? They're not getting enough 'exposure' for the work they do? "
JohnnyBLodi wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:46 AM:
OTH wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:29 AM:
If you are covering a family you are talking $500+. And that may be a low estimate. Lodi is in the ball park of other cities it's size, there's no need for a raise. "
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:28 AM:
Manteca has 63,000 people and Lodi has what 60,000. Manteca pays $500 also. "
OTH wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:24 AM:
If you don't like the compensation don't run. "
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:17 AM:
http://www.nextdaypets.com/directory/dogs/880a5d87-12f1.aspx
They will fly the dog to you. We have done that for the past 8 years. (family and friends).
I will quit for fear that I might change this blog to a puppy site. Back to the CC issues.
Peace Out. "
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:14 AM:
then you will not mind this link. DO NOT SHOW YOUR KIDS.
http://www.nextdaypets.com/directory/dogs/824e0749-b0a1.aspx
"
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:10 AM:
You have absolutely made my day; no my year!!! "
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:06 AM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:03 AM:
Since I'm in an investigative mood, I wonder just how that council member is 'reimbursed' by their employer. Is this repayment 'tax-free' or is it considered income? I'm sure I already know the answer.
Isn't there something odd about the taxpayer paying for a benefit and having the person compensated by another entity? Isn't this 'double-dipping' to a certain degree?
Depending upon the details, why should the citizens of Lodi pay for something already at least partially paid for? "
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:01 AM:
http://dachshund-rescue.org/node/1315
"
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 11:00 AM:
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:59 AM:
check out buddy.
http://dachshund-rescue.org/node/1327
"
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:59 AM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:58 AM:
I wasn't aware of this. Obviously, this causes me to want to know more. Exactly what are the additional 'perks' for being a Lodi City Councilman/woman? What else, beside their $500 salary, do the taxpayers provide to them for their part-time job?
Each of us has valid concerns - they should be addressed. "
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:57 AM:
Eileen St Yves wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:54 AM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:50 AM:
And yes, 'puppy breath' has got to be one of God's greatest gifts - it denotes such innocence and 'cuteness' like nothing else possibly can. "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:45 AM:
Just how is this justification for a raise in salary? Are we to understand that when they attend a fundraiser as a representative of the city that they are somehow 'strong-armed' into making personal donations and as a result, the city should pay for their possible tax-deductible contributions? Is it not permissible to refrain from writing a check for something they do not believe in? This is all very curious.
As I've already asked, what is their motive? "
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:43 AM:
I got online found a breeder and within days had a beautiful baby boy, not to replace our baby, but to add to the commotion of our family.
He is now 1 1/2 years and 155 pounds... a BIG dog who thinks he is a wiener dog.
Nothings heals a sad heart like a puppy !!!!! "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:38 AM:
They've now opened the door. My curiosity is now piqued - what constitutes an 'expense' and exactly how are they compensated?
I know when I worked for a company and I submitted a reimbursement request, I was required not only to supply receipts, but an explanation as to ‘why’ I should be reimbursed. It was usually a major pain in the butt – but they simply didn’t cut a check unless I fully substantiated the expense. "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:34 AM:
I'm really not against the idea. My concern is their 'motive' behind a mere 5% increase on $500. Just how much of a difference will that make? Will that permit them to quit their day jobs and dedicate their time totally as a councilperson?
They knew what their stipend would be. They are fully reimbursed for any expenses paid as a result of their service to the city.
What is the 'true' motive??? "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:30 AM:
Oh, there will be another dachshund, for certain. But Dottie played a role in my life that no other animal ever has. She's been by my side during my very worst days - and it was so apparent that she was there 'for' me.
I've just got to let time heal the pain of her death. I'm just thankful that this kitten is helping her little buddy heal as well. He is equally as important. "
Fruitful47 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:24 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:22 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:22 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:11 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:11 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:10 AM:
Yeah...! I'm into name calling right now. :o) Woo hooo I nice biker chick is back! I'll be waving Palms on Sunday then Wild Irish Chick on Monday, I'll be good on Friday then HE has risen indeed back on Sunday. That's my schedule. So it's like everyother day I'll be good. You OK with "
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:02 AM:
" buss owner wrote...I guess I'm not reading what you are reading. Stone throwing, name calling and allegations? You aren't a City Council member, are you? "
I was thinking the same thing, g. "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 10:02 AM:
You know, you raise a valid point. Whenever these folks ran for office, most of them 'sold' themselves on the idea that that they could provide solutions to the city's problems. I submit that NONE of them suggested that they would hire consultants after they were elected.
If this were true, why do they need high-paid consultants to do what they promised 'they' would do? "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:58 AM:
I guess I'm not reading what you are reading. Stone throwing, name calling and allegations?
I see some thoughtful debate as to this subject. You aren't a City Council member, are you? "
Lodian wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:51 AM:
Lodian wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:50 AM:
"'Wazoo, is right in there with fudpucker and Bafoon'
"If nothing else results from these blogs, our personal lexicons are expanding nicely."
LOLOLOLOLOL!!!!
"
buss owner wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:47 AM:
sam wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:38 AM:
Have a fabulous fudpucking friday, y'all. "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:36 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:32 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:30 AM:
He just yelped at me about woolite and no starch, something about the cape being able to flap in the wind like his ears.
You got a weiner dog? "
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:26 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:25 AM:
"
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:19 AM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:17 AM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:15 AM:
And just where do you keep your monitor? My wiener dog is very low to the ground. Hiking his leg doesn't come close to my monitor - maybe my ankle - but not my monitor!! "
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:15 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:14 AM:
Now he wants me to wash his cape cuz he peed on this one. "
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:12 AM:
If nothing else results from these blogs, our personal lexicons are expanding nicely. "
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:09 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:07 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 9:07 AM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:58 AM:
I submit, however, that if they could (and maybe they could and did), their 'desire' for the job was not outweighed by the cost to attain it. Undoubtedly, ego has a lot to do with 'why' these folks wanted these positions. Now that their egos are pacified, they want to be paid more for the privilege. I think not. "
wtf wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:49 AM:
We've all seen that they do not. Consultants out the wazoo and continual increases to utilities that fall on our backs.
A big resounding NO!!!!! Now is not the time for this discussion. If the discussion were about them taking a pay **cut** I'd say go for it. But that won't happen until pigs fly.
WY do you know if the pig in that commercial can fly? LOL! "
Observer wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:31 AM:
educator wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:25 AM:
educator wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:24 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:24 AM:
WY wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:21 AM:
concerned citizen wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:10 AM:
girard74 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 8:05 AM:
All of these council members knew that this position was never about making a living. Being reimbursed for actual expenses precludes their concern about having to dip into their own money.
Is it really about the 'time' they donate?
I believe the true motive to entertaining this idea is simply to open the door to making these positions full-time careers. If so, do it openly - don't be so sneaky.
When one accepts a $500-per-month government position, it is understood that this 'salary' is nothing more than recognition for their 'service'. "
kes wrote on Mar 14, 2008 7:46 AM:
boonablis wrote on Mar 14, 2008 7:16 AM:
Comments on this story are now closed.