This letter contains corrected information since its original publication.
Even though they are still in the process of learning the ropes, newest Esquimalt councillors Tim Morrison, Dave Hodgins, Robert McKie and David Shinbein have already mastered the art of syphoning taxpayers’ dollars into their pockets.
At last Monday’s council meeting (Sept. 17), McKie brought forward a motion that would entitle spouses/partners of councillors to a free gym pass. With Esquimalt taxpayers already on the hook for $62,000 worth of passes to town employees, he argued that an extra $3,000 would make little difference. The motion was defeated, with only McKie and Shinbein voting to accept the proposal.
Next in line was Coun. Morrison, asking that councillors be remunerated an extra five per cent for the times they are designated as acting mayor. Even though it’s called remuneration, it is just another word for more pay. That motion passed, with all four new councillors voting for it.
I should mention, longtime Coun. Lynda Hundleby expressed that serving as acting mayor was an honour. I lift my hat to her.
I expect my mayor and council to look after our tax dollars in a fair and responsible way, especially since it is not theirs to begin with.
I expect them to look at ways to reduce expenses, starting with themselves, to set examples to others. But I did not expect that those newest councillors to have the gall to vote themselves a remuneration increase. I assume it feels good to be on a gravy train.
Emmy Labonte
Esquimalt