DAYS after local government staff went on strike over a 2.45 per cent pay rise, Poole councillors have voted for pay rises of up to 67 per cent.
Cabinet members will see their allowances rise from £8,566 to £10,707 - on top of a basic allowance of £8,980.
In a bid to keep within the £571,470 budget this year, Conservative cabinet members volunteered to forego their rise until next April, while the other increases will be implemented from September.
Conservative group leader Cllr Ann Stribley told the council: "This is a significant sacrifice and contribution in order to keep within budget."
She stressed the increases, which include 67 per cent for overview and scrutiny chairmen from £2,570 to £4,283, were the recommendations of an independent panel and the council had agreed them in principle in May. Members' allowances have already received an inflationary adjustment of 2.9 per cent.
The allowance for the chairman of planning will rise 100 per cent for future holders of the role. This year's chairman does not claim that allowance as she is already deputy leader of the council, drawing £21,829.
Liberal Democrat Cllr Tony Trent said the council should be setting an example. "I think we should have an increase in line with what we give our staff," he said.
Three Conservatives abstained from the vote, including Cllr Carole Deas, who said: "I think this is a very inappropriate time to have this increase."
But Cllr Chris Bulteel said: "My workload has increased to such an extent I have had to cut my hours of employment to be able to cope with the workload of the health and social care overview and scrutiny committee."
Liberal Democrat group leader Cllr Mike Brooke proposed an amendment that they should retain the current scheme with its 2.9 per cent inflationary rise for three years or the life of the council.
"That's about what many other people are having. This is totally self congratulatory. It's snouts in the trough," he said.
The amendment was lost on the vote and the motion with the rise from September, with portfolio holders delayed until April, was voted through.
The situation mirrors that of Bournemouth last February when cabinet members voted to increase their allowances by up to 36 per cent.
The decision meant the basic sum paid to every single councillor rose by 17.3 per cent to £9,020, while cabinet members benefited from a rise of almost 32 per cent to £20,295. Council leader Cllr Stephen MacLoughlin and deputy Cllr John Beesley saw their allowances rise by 34 and 36 per cent respectively.
The new rates in Poole are:
Council leader - £30,395
Deputy leader - £21,829
Portfolio holders, eight - £19,687
Chairmen of six overview and scrutiny committees - £13,263.
7:38pm Wednesday 23rd July 2008
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CommentPosted by: hoppity, hamworthy on 7:42pm Wed 23 Jul 08
now all those people that moaned about the strikes can see why workers are up in arms
now all those people that moaned about the strikes can see why workers are up in arms
Posted by: fedupwithjobsworths, Moordown on 7:53pm Wed 23 Jul 08
They are nothing more than a bunch of spivs
They are nothing more than a bunch of spivs
Posted by: counciljoke, christchurch on 7:55pm Wed 23 Jul 08
the only reason these kind of people become councillors is nothing to do with improving their town or the welfare of its residents,its all about greed and power.the ability to decide on other peoples business and to feather their own nests with ridiculous pay rises!
the only reason these kind of people become councillors is nothing to do with improving their town or the welfare of its residents,its all about greed and power.the ability to decide on other peoples business and to feather their own nests with ridiculous pay rises!
Posted by: Quakers, Poole on 9:18pm Wed 23 Jul 08
I'm sure that most Cllrs dothink that they can make a difference to the well being of their town and residents. However, this is completely innappropriate when everyone else in the Councils are being told to make savings, cut jobs, cut services etc. I sympathise with the refuse collectors, they made their point but if they keep striking they will lose that support. They should all play by the same set of rules. GREEDY COUNCILLORS, SHAME ON YOU ALL
I'm sure that most Cllrs dothink that they can make a difference to the well being of their town and residents. However, this is completely innappropriate when everyone else in the Councils are being told to make savings, cut jobs, cut services etc. I sympathise with the refuse collectors, they made their point but if they keep striking they will lose that support. They should all play by the same set of rules. GREEDY COUNCILLORS, SHAME ON YOU ALL
Posted by: mccherry, dorset on 9:23pm Wed 23 Jul 08
Cllr Deas is reported to have abstained from the vote but will still benifit from the increase . Surely if she was against the proposed increase she would have voted against along with her 2 collegues ? It seems to me like the type of hypocripsy displayed in national goverment on a daily basis , where one thing is said but another is actioned !
Cllr Deas is reported to have abstained from the vote but will still benifit from the increase . Surely if she was against the proposed increase she would have voted against along with her 2 collegues ? It seems to me like the type of hypocripsy displayed in national goverment on a daily basis , where one thing is said but another is actioned !
Posted by: Gordon, Poole on 9:39pm Wed 23 Jul 08
How on earth can these councillors have the nerve to justify such increases by an independent unelected body surely the hard pressed local taxpayers could say that an independent body takes the view that they should cut the pay and allowances as the average pay in Dorset is well below the national average.
I challenge the councillors to put this increase in their manifestos if they believe its justified I know one voter will vote against & am sure others will join me
Pay for the councillors can only come from cuts in services or massive tax hikes
How on earth can these councillors have the nerve to justify such increases by an independent unelected body surely the hard pressed local taxpayers could say that an independent body takes the view that they should cut the pay and allowances as the average pay in Dorset is well below the national average.
I challenge the councillors to put this increase in their manifestos if they believe its justified I know one voter will vote against & am sure others will join me
Pay for the councillors can only come from cuts in services or massive tax hikes
Posted by: paul, poole on 10:09pm Wed 23 Jul 08
What an utter Joke! This council sucks big time, get some Councillors who can expect the same 2.45% and sack the rest of the old farts!
What an utter Joke! This council sucks big time, get some Councillors who can expect the same 2.45% and sack the rest of the old farts!
Posted by: derek, dorset on 10:23pm Wed 23 Jul 08
it is OK for some ...........
and for others it is a drop in services and an increase in tax
it is OK for some ...........
and for others it is a drop in services and an increase in tax
Posted by: mike, poole on 10:47pm Wed 23 Jul 08
How much savings had to be made for our Library services? £176 000. How much of the cuts could have been avoided by usage of the councillors pay rise? 'Frankly, my dear, they don't give a ****!'
How much savings had to be made for our Library services? £176 000. How much of the cuts could have been avoided by usage of the councillors pay rise? 'Frankly, my dear, they don't give a ****!'
Posted by: cheesedof, wimborne on 10:49pm Wed 23 Jul 08
Cllrs Stribley I am totally independent and I totally reject your claim in favour of my much valued refuse collector,please test my comments among the voters and act accordingly. You and so called public servants including M.Ps. are the only employees I know that tell the employer what to pay!
Cllrs Stribley I am totally independent and I totally reject your claim in favour of my much valued refuse collector,please test my comments among the voters and act accordingly. You and so called public servants including M.Ps. are the only employees I know that tell the employer what to pay!
Posted by: muffin the mule, wallisdown on 8:06am Thu 24 Jul 08
despicable bunch of leeches ,becoming a councillor is the short route to topping up the shortfall in your pension - no wonder they hang on tooth and nail to these postitions ...an enormous waste of resources..... exclusive band of crooks ,thats all you are
despicable bunch of leeches ,becoming a councillor is the short route to topping up the shortfall in your pension - no wonder they hang on tooth and nail to these postitions ...an enormous waste of resources..... exclusive band of crooks ,thats all you are
Posted by: boblister, Wedgwood Drive, Poole on 8:58am Thu 24 Jul 08
No doubt many of the Councillors work very hard. It must be a very difficult job with many negative criticisms and very few highs.
I believe they should get paid a proper salary, with no full time job involvement, BUT... there are too many Councillors! To justify any increase, the numbers should be reduced by a third, until this time, cost of living increases, etc should be in line with true inflation 8%!
No doubt many of the Councillors work very hard. It must be a very difficult job with many negative criticisms and very few highs.
I believe they should get paid a proper salary, with no full time job involvement, BUT... there are too many Councillors! To justify any increase, the numbers should be reduced by a third, until this time, cost of living increases, etc should be in line with true inflation 8%!
Posted by: hoppity, hamworthy on 8:59am Thu 24 Jul 08
[quote][bold] Hugh[/bold] wrote:
It is nice to have some facts and figures. Considering that [bold]these are the top pay levels for our elected representatives[/bold] , they do not seem very high. I would prefer it if they were paid well to insure we [bold]get the best people[/bold], and the councillors know that there are high quality people ready to take over if they are not motivated and doing a good job. The same applies to our MPs. The real problem lies with our permanent administrative staff - the town hall staff, and the civil service. The ‘Chief Executives’ of the town halls seem to be vying to see who will be the first to get a million pounds per annum. [bold]Who is it that decides their pay, and pensions?[/bold] Considering that they are not exposed to market forces, and are dependent on the tax payer, they seem to get far too much. They demand and take far too much tax from us. [italic]Exodus 20 17 You shall not covet your neighbour’s house; you shall not covet your neighbour’s wife, or male or female slave, or ox, or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbour.[/italic] That includes my money, coveted and taken by the town hall and civil service. [/quote] HUGH :we covet nothing, it also says in the bible i believe, loosley translated,treat others as you wish to be treated,. So in my opinion, and it is only my opinion, we should all be equal and not one rule for us and another for the "bosses" or in this case our elected representatives
Hugh wrote:
It is nice to have some facts and figures. Considering that these are the top pay levels for our elected representatives , they do not seem very high. I would prefer it if they were paid well to insure we get the best people, and the councillors know that there are high quality people ready to take over if they are not motivated and doing a good job. The same applies to our MPs. The real problem lies with our permanent administrative staff - the town hall staff, and the civil service. The ‘Chief Executives’ of the town halls seem to be vying to see who will be the first to get a million pounds per annum. Who is it that decides their pay, and pensions? Considering that they are not exposed to market forces, and are dependent on the tax payer, they seem to get far too much. They demand and take far too much tax from us. Exodus 20 17 You shall not covet your neighbour’s house; you shall not covet your neighbour’s wife, or male or female slave, or ox, or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbour. That includes my money, coveted and taken by the town hall and civil service.
HUGH :we covet nothing, it also says in the bible i believe, loosley translated,treat others as you wish to be treated,. So in my opinion, and it is only my opinion, we should all be equal and not one rule for us and another for the "bosses" or in this case our elected representatives
Posted by: laurie marsh, australia on 11:02am Thu 24 Jul 08
Have you noticed that any "independent panel" never seem to have any names?
Things are going "pear shaped" and these low lifes vote themselves a huge pay rise!
It is a pity that people have such short memories, as most of them will vote the "party line" at the next election!
That is why these creeps (that includes the "abstainers"), get away with this sort of thing!
Have you noticed that any "independent panel" never seem to have any names?
Things are going "pear shaped" and these low lifes vote themselves a huge pay rise!
It is a pity that people have such short memories, as most of them will vote the "party line" at the next election!
That is why these creeps (that includes the "abstainers"), get away with this sort of thing!
Posted by: michael carpenter, BOSCOMBE on 11:13am Thu 24 Jul 08
NO SUPPRISE THERE THEN!
BORNEMOUTHS COUNCILS TURN NEXT?
NO SUPPRISE THERE THEN!
BORNEMOUTHS COUNCILS TURN NEXT?
Posted by: Green & Gold, Bourenmouth on 11:50am Thu 24 Jul 08
I work for the local council. I did not go out on strike last week as could not afford to go without two days pay. How nice that the Poole council feel their staff should have better pay while we still struggle along. So Cllr Chris Bulteel has to cut his employment hours due to his work load!! Shouldn't he have thought of that before standing for election?
I work for the local council. I did not go out on strike last week as could not afford to go without two days pay. How nice that the Poole council feel their staff should have better pay while we still struggle along. So Cllr Chris Bulteel has to cut his employment hours due to his work load!! Shouldn't he have thought of that before standing for election?
Posted by: ALL SEEING EYE, WESSEX on 12:59pm Thu 24 Jul 08
[bold]We the Poole residents MUST vote at the next local election and get these money grabbing imbeciles out of the council.
It is time for change and I would have thought the time is right to vote against all the familiar names and get some fresh faces in.
Too much collusion with Brothers and Sisters of fraternal societies for the good of the Poole Residents.
As the Lib-Dems voted against the increase, will they now forgo that increase or was it empty vessels from the Lib-Dems again? They could always show a benevolent side and give the increase to a Poole charity.
Nice if we were to hear a reply from a Lib-Dem but of course it’s not election time.[/bold]
We the Poole residents MUST vote at the next local election and get these money grabbing imbeciles out of the council.
It is time for change and I would have thought the time is right to vote against all the familiar names and get some fresh faces in.
Too much collusion with Brothers and Sisters of fraternal societies for the good of the Poole Residents.
As the Lib-Dems voted against the increase, will they now forgo that increase or was it empty vessels from the Lib-Dems again? They could always show a benevolent side and give the increase to a Poole charity.
Nice if we were to hear a reply from a Lib-Dem but of course it’s not election time. Posted by: Hugh, Bournemouth on 1:24pm Thu 24 Jul 08
It is nice to have some facts and figures. Considering that [bold]these are the top pay levels for our elected representatives[/bold] , they do not seem very high. I would prefer it if they were paid well [bold]to insure we get the best people[/bold], and the councillors know that there are high quality people ready to take over if they are not motivated and doing a good job.
The same applies to our MPs.
[bold]The real problem lies with our permanent administrative staff[/bold] - the town hall staff, and the civil service. The ‘Chief Executives’ of the town halls seem to be vying to see who will be the first to get a million pounds per annum. [bold]Who is it that decides their pay, and pensions?[/bold] Considering that they are not exposed to market forces, and are dependent on the tax payer, they seem to [bold]get far too much[/bold].
They demand and take far too much tax from us.
One of the ten commandments of the Christian faith states that people should not want others people possessions.
That includes my money, wanted and taken by the town hall and civil service.
It is nice to have some facts and figures. Considering that
these are the top pay levels for our elected representatives , they do not seem very high. I would prefer it if they were paid well
to insure we get the best people, and the councillors know that there are high quality people ready to take over if they are not motivated and doing a good job.
The same applies to our MPs.
The real problem lies with our permanent administrative staff - the town hall staff, and the civil service. The ‘Chief Executives’ of the town halls seem to be vying to see who will be the first to get a million pounds per annum.
Who is it that decides their pay, and pensions? Considering that they are not exposed to market forces, and are dependent on the tax payer, they seem to
get far too much.
They demand and take far too much tax from us.
One of the ten commandments of the Christian faith states that people should not want others people possessions.
That includes my money, wanted and taken by the town hall and civil service.
Posted by: Rogman, Boscombe East on 1:31pm Thu 24 Jul 08
[quote][bold]counciljoke[/bold] wrote:
the only reason these kind of people become councillors is nothing to do with improving their town or the welfare of its residents,its all about greed and power.the ability to decide on other peoples business and to feather their own nests with ridiculous pay rises! [/quote] Indeed it is!
counciljoke wrote:
the only reason these kind of people become councillors is nothing to do with improving their town or the welfare of its residents,its all about greed and power.the ability to decide on other peoples business and to feather their own nests with ridiculous pay rises!
Indeed it is!
Posted by: rob of poole, poole on 1:53pm Thu 24 Jul 08
how dare these councillors pay themselves £9k a year. They are disgusting gold diggers. I think we should get rid of all our publicly elected members and trust in the strategic directors and the chief exec. How can that idiot Leverett expect to earn £30k a year for a full time job as the top man of a local council? Surely the constant praise in the papers should be reward enough? Are we made of money?! I think that the Chief Execs salary of over £100k and the strategic directors salaries of over £90k is probably reasonable because they haven't been elected or anything. But **** those nest feathering councillors though.
how dare these councillors pay themselves £9k a year. They are disgusting gold diggers. I think we should get rid of all our publicly elected members and trust in the strategic directors and the chief exec. How can that idiot Leverett expect to earn £30k a year for a full time job as the top man of a local council? Surely the constant praise in the papers should be reward enough? Are we made of money?! I think that the Chief Execs salary of over £100k and the strategic directors salaries of over £90k is probably reasonable because they haven't been elected or anything. But **** those nest feathering councillors though.
Posted by: Quakers, Poole on 5:00pm Thu 24 Jul 08
if you vote this lot out I am not convinced the next lot will be any different. The Lib Dems make the right noises but no they will not be heard. As for Labour - they are already trying to run the country and what a pigs ear they are making of that. They should never be elected anywhere ever again.
if you vote this lot out I am not convinced the next lot will be any different. The Lib Dems make the right noises but no they will not be heard. As for Labour - they are already trying to run the country and what a pigs ear they are making of that. They should never be elected anywhere ever again.
Posted by: Hugh, Bournemouth on 5:41pm Thu 24 Jul 08
Facts and figures, and the Truth.
[bold]Democratically Elected Representatives[/bold]
Council leader - £30,395.
Deputy leader - £21,829.
Cabinet members - £20,295.
Portfolio holders - £19,687.
Chairmen of six overview and scrutiny committees - £13,263.
basic sum paid to councillors - £9,020.
[bold]Town Hall Administrative Clerical Office Staff[/bold]
Chief Executives - over £100,000
Strategic directors - over £90,000k
It is nice to have some facts and figures. Considering that these are the top pay levels for our elected representatives, they do not seem very high. I would prefer it if they were paid well to insure we get the best people. Then the councillors would know that there are high quality people ready to take over if they are not motivated and doing a good job.
The same applies to our MPs.
Facts and figures, and the Truth.
Democratically Elected Representatives
Council leader - £30,395.
Deputy leader - £21,829.
Cabinet members - £20,295.
Portfolio holders - £19,687.
Chairmen of six overview and scrutiny committees - £13,263.
basic sum paid to councillors - £9,020.
Town Hall Administrative Clerical Office Staff
Chief Executives - over £100,000
Strategic directors - over £90,000k
It is nice to have some facts and figures. Considering that these are the top pay levels for our elected representatives, they do not seem very high. I would prefer it if they were paid well to insure we get the best people. Then the councillors would know that there are high quality people ready to take over if they are not motivated and doing a good job.
The same applies to our MPs.
Posted by: Lewcee2, Park Gates East on 6:29pm Thu 24 Jul 08
Just hang on a minute...of those that have posted negative comments, how many have tried to do the job? I was co-opted in a nearby Council some years ago, and was astonished at the amount of time, effort, and money I had to spend to do the many things I was asked to do...£9K+ for a basic Councillor is...peanuts. Make the posts full-time, and then see how much you need to pay to get this job done, let alone pay enough to get it done well! Go on, try it, then moan. Or stop doing it, as I did, because of the constant whining...
Just hang on a minute...of those that have posted negative comments, how many have tried to do the job? I was co-opted in a nearby Council some years ago, and was astonished at the amount of time, effort, and money I had to spend to do the many things I was asked to do...£9K+ for a basic Councillor is...peanuts. Make the posts full-time, and then see how much you need to pay to get this job done, let alone pay enough to get it done well! Go on, try it, then moan. Or stop doing it, as I did, because of the constant whining...
Posted by: Charlie on 6:35pm Thu 24 Jul 08
In at least one area of Poole, there are husand and wife councillors. Even with the basic sum paid to councillors, that means their households receive ALL the council tax (assuming around £1,100 per household)paid by about 17 households in that area. No wonder we don't get the level of services we should.
Just shows the contempt with whch they hold council tax payers and the "ordinary" council employees.
In at least one area of Poole, there are husand and wife councillors. Even with the basic sum paid to councillors, that means their households receive ALL the council tax (assuming around £1,100 per household)paid by about 17 households in that area. No wonder we don't get the level of services we should.
Just shows the contempt with whch they hold council tax payers and the "ordinary" council employees.
Posted by: hoppity, hamworthy on 7:15pm Thu 24 Jul 08
hugh quoted:Democraticall
y Elected Representatives
Council leader - £30,395.
Deputy leader - £21,829.
Cabinet members - £20,295.
Portfolio holders - £19,687.
Chairmen of six overview and scrutiny committees - £13,263.
basic sum paid to councillors - £9,020.
Town Hall Administrative Clerical Office Staff
Chief Executives - over £100,000
Strategic directors - over £90,000k
what about the lowly office staff and TA and the dustmen and all thoses in public service. Also the councillors and higher up staff get expenses, lunches etc, I still feel you cannot take a large pay rise and expect other workers to accept a lot less and yes whatever party gets in they will all be the same, greed goes across all parties
hugh quoted:Democraticall
y Elected Representatives
Council leader - £30,395.
Deputy leader - £21,829.
Cabinet members - £20,295.
Portfolio holders - £19,687.
Chairmen of six overview and scrutiny committees - £13,263.
basic sum paid to councillors - £9,020.
Town Hall Administrative Clerical Office Staff
Chief Executives - over £100,000
Strategic directors - over £90,000k
what about the lowly office staff and TA and the dustmen and all thoses in public service. Also the councillors and higher up staff get expenses, lunches etc, I still feel you cannot take a large pay rise and expect other workers to accept a lot less and yes whatever party gets in they will all be the same, greed goes across all parties
Posted by: Cllr David Brown, Merley & Bearwood, Poole on 5:24am Fri 25 Jul 08
Interesting discussion! I am a Lib Dem Poole Councillor and along with my Lib Dem colleagues we all voted against these increases and for our own amendment to keep the current pay structure for the next three years, but were defeated.
Along with my Lib Dem colleagues, I agree that these increases are completely inappropriate in the current climate and I’m happy with my 2.9% inflationary increase on my £9k basic allowance.
I would just like to add a bit of balance to the debate. In answer to the sweeping generalisations about us all being greedy, money-grabbing leeches trying to supplement our pensions, some people may think that is fair comment about some politicians but please don’t tar us all with the same brush.
To get elected last year, I decided to end my well paid career to be able to dedicate sufficient time to being a councillor and to being able to work for the local community and increase the time I spend working unpaid with local voluntary projects which I see as an important part of being a community activist. Rather than a good salary plus benefits, share options, etc which I was used to, I have now adjusted my lifestyle to be able to live on the councillors allowance of £9k plus about £5k I get from freelance work – less than half what I was used to.
I’m not moaning, I knew what to expect and I’m happy with this and have planned my life accordingly. To be honest, I enjoy being a councillor and I’m happy with my decision to seek satisfaction from what I do each day and forego the financial reward of my previous career. Like a lot of my colleagues, if we were interested in financial reward we could earn a lot more doing other things, but that is not what we want from life. There is more to life than money and I would recommend becoming a councillor if you want a chance to make a difference in your local area.
A reasonable basic allowance is necessary to be able to attract younger people like myself and several of my colleagues to become councillors, otherwise you would only ever have those already getting pensions, running their own businesses or those with independent means which would not be representative of the community.
In reply to ALL SEEING EYE’s question about will the Lib Dems forego the increases, these increases were for Committee Chairs and Cabinet Members, all now Conservative held positions, so there are no increases for the Lib Dems to forego!
I’m not surprised by a lot of these comments and get used to this perception of politicians, but hope that a bit of balance and a request to avoid sweeping generalisations might not go amiss.
Interesting discussion! I am a Lib Dem Poole Councillor and along with my Lib Dem colleagues we all voted against these increases and for our own amendment to keep the current pay structure for the next three years, but were defeated.
Along with my Lib Dem colleagues, I agree that these increases are completely inappropriate in the current climate and I’m happy with my 2.9% inflationary increase on my £9k basic allowance.
I would just like to add a bit of balance to the debate. In answer to the sweeping generalisations about us all being greedy, money-grabbing leeches trying to supplement our pensions, some people may think that is fair comment about some politicians but please don’t tar us all with the same brush.
To get elected last year, I decided to end my well paid career to be able to dedicate sufficient time to being a councillor and to being able to work for the local community and increase the time I spend working unpaid with local voluntary projects which I see as an important part of being a community activist. Rather than a good salary plus benefits, share options, etc which I was used to, I have now adjusted my lifestyle to be able to live on the councillors allowance of £9k plus about £5k I get from freelance work – less than half what I was used to.
I’m not moaning, I knew what to expect and I’m happy with this and have planned my life accordingly. To be honest, I enjoy being a councillor and I’m happy with my decision to seek satisfaction from what I do each day and forego the financial reward of my previous career. Like a lot of my colleagues, if we were interested in financial reward we could earn a lot more doing other things, but that is not what we want from life. There is more to life than money and I would recommend becoming a councillor if you want a chance to make a difference in your local area.
A reasonable basic allowance is necessary to be able to attract younger people like myself and several of my colleagues to become councillors, otherwise you would only ever have those already getting pensions, running their own businesses or those with independent means which would not be representative of the community.
In reply to ALL SEEING EYE’s question about will the Lib Dems forego the increases, these increases were for Committee Chairs and Cabinet Members, all now Conservative held positions, so there are no increases for the Lib Dems to forego!
I’m not surprised by a lot of these comments and get used to this perception of politicians, but hope that a bit of balance and a request to avoid sweeping generalisations might not go amiss.
Posted by: rob of poole, poole on 7:12am Fri 25 Jul 08
Dear Hoppity, How many of the lowly paid office staff and dustmen only earn £9k? Or do they have their "snouts in trough" already? Get a sense of perspective - councillors get slagged off and criticised by the media (sometimes fairly sometimes not), phoned up all hours of the day, constantly "called to account" etc etc. They're a far more visible target than the strategic directors who earn 5-6 times more than them. The government continues to pour on them additional work and the the media constantly "have a go" and expect decisions to look perfect with the benefit of hindsight - frankly I don't envy them. Even Leverett's pay is only a decent graduate's starting salary. At the end of the day anyone of us can choose to join them. Feel free old boy.
Dear Hoppity, How many of the lowly paid office staff and dustmen only earn £9k? Or do they have their "snouts in trough" already? Get a sense of perspective - councillors get slagged off and criticised by the media (sometimes fairly sometimes not), phoned up all hours of the day, constantly "called to account" etc etc. They're a far more visible target than the strategic directors who earn 5-6 times more than them. The government continues to pour on them additional work and the the media constantly "have a go" and expect decisions to look perfect with the benefit of hindsight - frankly I don't envy them. Even Leverett's pay is only a decent graduate's starting salary. At the end of the day anyone of us can choose to join them. Feel free old boy.
Posted by: John, Poole on 10:27am Fri 25 Jul 08
Cllr Brown
Thank you for your enlightened view of your work as a Councillor and for your local community.
I trust that the 5.24a.m. timing of your posting is not indicative of a normal day's work for you, as I fear you will not be able to keep up such unstinting work.
There is only one Margaret Thatcher...Thank God!
Cllr Brown
Thank you for your enlightened view of your work as a Councillor and for your local community.
I trust that the 5.24a.m. timing of your posting is not indicative of a normal day's work for you, as I fear you will not be able to keep up such unstinting work.
There is only one Margaret Thatcher...Thank God!
Posted by: John, Poole on 10:27am Fri 25 Jul 08
Cllr Brown
Thank you for your enlightened view of your work as a Councillor and for your local community.
I trust that the 5.24a.m. timing of your posting is not indicative of a normal day's work for you, as I fear you will not be able to keep up such unstinting work.
There is only one Margaret Thatcher...Thank God!
Cllr Brown
Thank you for your enlightened view of your work as a Councillor and for your local community.
I trust that the 5.24a.m. timing of your posting is not indicative of a normal day's work for you, as I fear you will not be able to keep up such unstinting work.
There is only one Margaret Thatcher...Thank God!
Posted by: Cllr David Brown, Bearwood, Poole on 7:07pm Fri 25 Jul 08
John,
Don’t worry, I'm not another Margaret Thatcher! But I find the early hours of the morning always offer the quietest time for clarity of thought and competent writing!! Until the sun rises and the birds start to disturb me!!
John,
Don’t worry, I'm not another Margaret Thatcher! But I find the early hours of the morning always offer the quietest time for clarity of thought and competent writing!! Until the sun rises and the birds start to disturb me!!
Posted by: Invisible1955, Poole on 10:09pm Fri 25 Jul 08
Poole Council observe Britain's corrupt MP's constantly on the take: paying nanny's fees and fitting out second homes with expensive new kitchens using taxpayers money, and so quite naturally award themselves a huge increase in ther allowance.
With council workers feeling the need to take strike action, now would have been a wonderful opportunity to exercise restraint and demonstrate a bit of leadership, but [italic]no[/italic].
The whole sytem of government in this country is thoroughly rotten!
Poole Council observe Britain's corrupt MP's constantly on the take: paying nanny's fees and fitting out second homes with expensive new kitchens using taxpayers money, and so quite naturally award themselves a huge increase in ther allowance.
With council workers feeling the need to take strike action, now would have been a wonderful opportunity to exercise restraint and demonstrate a bit of leadership, but
no.
The whole sytem of government in this country is thoroughly rotten!
Posted by: sean, poole on 7:57pm Sat 26 Jul 08
HERE WE GO AGAIN COUNCILLORS. IF PEOPLE DID NOT NO WE HAVE A CONTROLLING COUNCIL WHICH MEANS ANN STRIBLEYS GROUP WILL ALL VOTE IN LINE WITH WHAT HER GROUP DEMANDS THE LIB DEMS CAN VOTE BUT IF THE CONSERVATIVES WANT SOMETHING THEY WILL GET THERE OWN WAY FROM WHAT I SEE THE LIB DEMS DO ALL THAT THEY CAN FOR THE PEOPLE OF POOLE BUT THE CONSERVATIVES HAVE CONTROL THIS LATEST RISE IS A DISCRACE AND FORGET THE INDEPEDANT PANEL THEY COULD OF GONE THERE OWN WAY BUT INSTEAD OF SUPPORTING THE PEOPLE OF POOLE ITS LIKE RUBBING IT IN AND YET WE HAVE STRIKES BECAUSE THEY CAN NOT OFFER THE STAFF A REASONABLE RISE .AND WITH THE WAY THE PRESENT ECONOMY IS GOING EVERYONE IS STRUGGLING SORRY ALMOST ALL OF US.
WE ALL HAVE THREE YEARS BEFORE WE CAN VOTE LOCALLY AGAIN I HOPE THIS WILL BE STUCK IN PEOPLES MEMORIES WHEN THE TIME COMES AS IT WIL MINEER CLLR STRIBLEYS GROUP SHOULD BE EMBARASSED BY THIS AND SHE SHOULD RESIGN FOR THIS REASON AS WELL.
HERE WE GO AGAIN COUNCILLORS. IF PEOPLE DID NOT NO WE HAVE A CONTROLLING COUNCIL WHICH MEANS ANN STRIBLEYS GROUP WILL ALL VOTE IN LINE WITH WHAT HER GROUP DEMANDS THE LIB DEMS CAN VOTE BUT IF THE CONSERVATIVES WANT SOMETHING THEY WILL GET THERE OWN WAY FROM WHAT I SEE THE LIB DEMS DO ALL THAT THEY CAN FOR THE PEOPLE OF POOLE BUT THE CONSERVATIVES HAVE CONTROL THIS LATEST RISE IS A DISCRACE AND FORGET THE INDEPEDANT PANEL THEY COULD OF GONE THERE OWN WAY BUT INSTEAD OF SUPPORTING THE PEOPLE OF POOLE ITS LIKE RUBBING IT IN AND YET WE HAVE STRIKES BECAUSE THEY CAN NOT OFFER THE STAFF A REASONABLE RISE .AND WITH THE WAY THE PRESENT ECONOMY IS GOING EVERYONE IS STRUGGLING SORRY ALMOST ALL OF US.
WE ALL HAVE THREE YEARS BEFORE WE CAN VOTE LOCALLY AGAIN I HOPE THIS WILL BE STUCK IN PEOPLES MEMORIES WHEN THE TIME COMES AS IT WIL MINEER CLLR STRIBLEYS GROUP SHOULD BE EMBARASSED BY THIS AND SHE SHOULD RESIGN FOR THIS REASON AS WELL.
Posted by: hoppity, hamworthy on 10:10pm Sat 26 Jul 08
[quote][bold]rob of poole[/bold] wrote:
Dear Hoppity, How many of the lowly paid office staff and dustmen only earn £9k? Or do they have their "snouts in trough" already? Get a sense of perspective - councillors get slagged off and criticised by the media (sometimes fairly sometimes not), phoned up all hours of the day, constantly "called to account" etc etc. They're a far more visible target than the strategic directors who earn 5-6 times more than them. The government continues to pour on them additional work and the the media constantly "have a go" and expect decisions to look perfect with the benefit of hindsight - frankly I don't envy them. Even Leverett's pay is only a decent graduate's starting salary. At the end of the day anyone of us can choose to join them. Feel free old boy.[/quote] yes maybe they do only get £9k but some also have a job and expenses ,my point originally was you cannot expect people to accept a pay rise less than inflation and then vote yourself a very large one. I would agree that not ALL concillors are greedy and money grabbing but unfortunately the ones I know are. I would apply for the job myself but I feel i am too honest.
rob of poole wrote:
Dear Hoppity, How many of the lowly paid office staff and dustmen only earn £9k? Or do they have their "snouts in trough" already? Get a sense of perspective - councillors get slagged off and criticised by the media (sometimes fairly sometimes not), phoned up all hours of the day, constantly "called to account" etc etc. They're a far more visible target than the strategic directors who earn 5-6 times more than them. The government continues to pour on them additional work and the the media constantly "have a go" and expect decisions to look perfect with the benefit of hindsight - frankly I don't envy them. Even Leverett's pay is only a decent graduate's starting salary. At the end of the day anyone of us can choose to join them. Feel free old boy.
yes maybe they do only get £9k but some also have a job and expenses ,my point originally was you cannot expect people to accept a pay rise less than inflation and then vote yourself a very large one. I would agree that not ALL concillors are greedy and money grabbing but unfortunately the ones I know are. I would apply for the job myself but I feel i am too honest.
Posted by: Slightly right of Attilla The, poole on 1:43pm Mon 28 Jul 08
It may interest you all to know as Poole Council Tax payers (if so please pass on to all your friends who also live in the Borough) I attended the full Council meeting. During which, one item on the agenda was to vote on the increase in expenses for the Councillors. The deputy Leader Proposed the motion that Portfolio holders should have an increase of 63% 'Ordinary ' Councillors should get 23% and the successor for chair of the Planning committee an increase approaching 100%. Although the sums involved are not earth shattering, it was felt to be the wrong attitude and deplorable timing by those opposing. It was commented on by various members of the Lib Dems that it was extremely badly timed as there had,the previous week been a Council workers strike due to their offer of 2.4%. and in spite of even the P.M. requesting members of the House NOT to take an increase in expenses. In spite of the heated debate and accusations that 'noses were being stuck in the trough' the motion was passed with only two abstentions from the Tories and total Liberal 'NO'. One Tory 'fence sitter' was harangued by the Deputy Leader with words to the effect " You won't be accepting your rise then!" It was pointed out also that the cost of living had risen for all not just Councillors. Some of whom told the assembled throng that they could go out and earn far more by spending more time at their place of work. Surely it would be to the betterment of all for them to take this course of action, as being a Councillor has always been a voluntary post undertaken for the good of the community. Not one whereby opportunities to line one's pockets are the name of the game. One Lib Dem Councillor was accused of lying about the Deputy leader and was told by Madam Mayor to withdraw the comment or sit down. He refused to do the former and so did the latter!. The Lib Dem Leader put forward a counter motion that any rise should have a moratorium placed upon it until next year so as to obviate the necessity of a budgetary overspend. This motion was also defeated by a large majority. Both the Leader & Deputy leader of the Council (and others) behaved in a disgraceful manner standing up and shouting across the chamber when other members were speaking and the whole debate resembled a bear pit by the end of the discussions. Madam Mayor had to plead for order and respect for members. This disgraceful behaviour is perpetrated by the people that you and I voted into power. They should ashamed of themselves. God preserve Poole and it's residents from being governed by people like this. E&OE
It may interest you all to know as Poole Council Tax payers (if so please pass on to all your friends who also live in the Borough) I attended the full Council meeting. During which, one item on the agenda was to vote on the increase in expenses for the Councillors. The deputy Leader Proposed the motion that Portfolio holders should have an increase of 63% 'Ordinary ' Councillors should get 23% and the successor for chair of the Planning committee an increase approaching 100%. Although the sums involved are not earth shattering, it was felt to be the wrong attitude and deplorable timing by those opposing. It was commented on by various members of the Lib Dems that it was extremely badly timed as there had,the previous week been a Council workers strike due to their offer of 2.4%. and in spite of even the P.M. requesting members of the House NOT to take an increase in expenses. In spite of the heated debate and accusations that 'noses were being stuck in the trough' the motion was passed with only two abstentions from the Tories and total Liberal 'NO'. One Tory 'fence sitter' was harangued by the Deputy Leader with words to the effect " You won't be accepting your rise then!" It was pointed out also that the cost of living had risen for all not just Councillors. Some of whom told the assembled throng that they could go out and earn far more by spending more time at their place of work. Surely it would be to the betterment of all for them to take this course of action, as being a Councillor has always been a voluntary post undertaken for the good of the community. Not one whereby opportunities to line one's pockets are the name of the game. One Lib Dem Councillor was accused of lying about the Deputy leader and was told by Madam Mayor to withdraw the comment or sit down. He refused to do the former and so did the latter!. The Lib Dem Leader put forward a counter motion that any rise should have a moratorium placed upon it until next year so as to obviate the necessity of a budgetary overspend. This motion was also defeated by a large majority. Both the Leader & Deputy leader of the Council (and others) behaved in a disgraceful manner standing up and shouting across the chamber when other members were speaking and the whole debate resembled a bear pit by the end of the discussions. Madam Mayor had to plead for order and respect for members. This disgraceful behaviour is perpetrated by the people that you and I voted into power. They should ashamed of themselves. God preserve Poole and it's residents from being governed by people like this. E&OE
Posted by: The General, Poole on 2:18pm Tue 29 Jul 08
As a Poole Borough Council employee, I am disgusted. To the core. How dare my employers treat us like this?
My letter of resignation will be submitted in due course.
The dirty bas****s
As a Poole Borough Council employee, I am disgusted. To the core. How dare my employers treat us like this?
My letter of resignation will be submitted in due course.
The dirty bas****s
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