30 September 2009: Dem Chairman Cites GOP Budget Hypocrisy On Council Pay

Democratic Town Chairman John McNamara today criticized Mayor Stewart for being “hypocritical” in his call for common council members to return $175 each in annual pay to help the city save money.

“The position of the Mayor and Alderman Salvio is the height of hypocrisy given their support for five percent pay raises for the Mayor and other officeholders during the budget making process this year,” said McNamara.

McNamara took exception to Stewart’s support for GOP aldermen “for putting their money where their mouth is” when Stewart has accepted more than $7,000 in pay increases over the last two years and no reduction in his own office budget. "The concept of shared sacrifice has not reached the mayor's office," stated McNamara.

McNamara cited city budget numbers showing the mayor’s office budget has risen 13.5% between 2003 and 2010, from $249,370 to $283,114. “The Mayor should put his money where his mouth is as well,” said McNamara.

“Getting $175 back from city council members is good as far as it goes. But Mayor Stewart should join the council in giving something back when the vast majority of residents are absorbing property tax and fee increases,” added McNamara.