pages: CityCouncil/2020-05-05.pdf, 12
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CityCouncil | 2020-05-05 | 12 | voters will vote to determine whether or not the Council should have the flexibility to give themselves a raise in the future; noted there has been strong support for the proposal; stated Council pay could be a limiting factor in attracting candidates who may not have the wherewithal to self-fund being a volunteer for the City. In response to Councilmember Oddie's inquiry regarding clarifying health benefits, Vice Mayor Knox White stated there is currently no language related to health benefits; the Charter strictly states members make $50 per meeting and does include health benefits, technology, or car allowances; previous Councilmembers have funded their family health coverage; the proposal clarifies that Councilmembers would be able to collect health benefits, but not as family coverage. Councilmember Oddie inquired whether the only people being removed from eligibility are family members of the Councilmember. Vice Mayor Knox White responded in the affirmative; stated language can be changed; noted previous versions discussed the City Auditor and Treasurer compensation being set by Council; the proposal does not change said provision. Councilmember Daysog provided Alameda County Council pay data from transparent California; stated there is a considerable discrepancy in the way Council is paid relative to nearby cities; noted members of the public have expressed concern about Council pay related to the COVID-19 environment; expressed support for Council discussion of the item at the current meeting; stated a decision does not need to be made, but the discussion can begin to inform the public about the direction of Council pay; the discussion is occurring in a vacuum and other Charter discussion items will be had in the coming days; each Councilmember should place the item in the context of discussions of related Charter items. Vice Mayor Knox White stated some Council comments may also relate to the proposed Measure 2; completed the presentation. Councilmember Daysog stated Council should consider having Councilmembers represent districts; more and more cities are being pressured by legal challenges and are turning to district elections; district elections can also be a form of campaign finance reform; noted campaigning in a district election could cost less depending on the formation of districts; stated San Leandro holds district elections, but candidates must be voted on citywide. Councilmember Oddie inquired whether the last two items will be considered. Vice Mayor Knox White responded that he did not intend for Council to consider the items at this meeting; stated Council can decide. Councilmember Daysog stated the direction provided at the previous Council meeting resulted in whittling down the list for discussion. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 12 May 5, 2020 | CityCouncil/2020-05-05.pdf |