Council VP Proposes Change to Salary Cut Legislation

Stow City Council Vice President  wants to put money saved from possible into the general fund now.

Drew said she is introducing an amendment Thursday to put money saved from a 10 percent cut in council's and the mayor's salary in 2012 into the general fund instead of using some of the funds as an incentive, for pay raises for city employees who are considered to be underpaid and into the city's savings account.

"I feel strongly that we need to show leadership and come to a resolution on this issue — I am hopeful these proposed changes will allow us to do so in a unified manner," said Drew.

A 10 percent cut is expected to save about $15,400 annually, starting in 2012.

"It's good she recognized that giving raises is wrong right now, considering our budget crisis. The cuts are still not large enough," said Councilmember Mike Rasor. "My proposal would have almost a three-times greater impact on the budget. After a full month of debating, nobody has refuted my data about our salaries being about 40 percent too high."

to cut 40 percent from the council's salary and 10 percent from the mayor's, would save $54,280 annually and be used to repair roads and buy snow-clearing vehicles.

Councilors make $16,660 annually and council's president makes $17,660, said Finance Director John Baranek. The mayor's annual salary is $90,215.

"I believe what I am proposing will eliminate the points of contention held by various councilmembers and allow us to move forward in a unified manner," said Drew. "These changes will allow council to vote on salary reduction only."

For council's reaction to the proposal, check back with Stow Patch Friday. The next council meeting is March 7 at 5:30 p.m. at .