“When the council discusses issues like this I hope it is understood that we are discussing positions and not individuals,” said Councilwoman Laura Flores Espinosa. She noted that there have been no performance evaluations upon which to base such conclusions and noted that higher salaries in other cities reflect higher revenues.The failed recruitment is due more to Santa Paula’s reputation, said Espinosa. “. . .it’s an ongoing thing, the reputation is out there. . .the bottom line is that our finances are in disarray. The DOJ lawsuit brought out considerable problems in that area; nobody wants to touch Santa Paula.”Councilman John Procter suggested that another recruitment be attempted before salary is decided.“I’m pretty much in disagreement with Mrs. Espinosa’s assessment,” said Mayor Don Johnson, who urged that the salary range be raised to bring the city more up to par with others.An employee audit is part of the council’s goals, said Luna, and the timing of the salary range increase is not right. “I just can’t [approve an increase], we’ve spent so much money with litigation. . .”Ultimately, the council voted 3-1 to delay raising the salary range. Johnson cast the lone no vote; Councilman Rick Cook had excused himself when the item was brought up, noting a conflict of interest.
Council takes a wait and see attitude on raising finance director salary range
August 10, 2001
Santa Paula City Council
A majority of the City Council took a wait and see attitude when they rejected a bid to raise the salary range of the finance director to the same as the police chief.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesA majority of the City Council took a wait and see attitude when they rejected a bid to raise the salary range of the finance director to the same as the police chief.City Manager Peter Cosentini said he was recommending that the salary range be bumped from $59,660-$72,517 plus benefits to $71,039-$86,349 plus benefits after a failed recruit for the position being vacated by present finance director Glenda Jay. The new salary range would be the same as Police Chief Bob Gonzales, said Cosentini.“It’s clear to me in my mind that we have to raise the salary up to a level to draw competent candidates,” he noted.Vice Mayor Ray Luna asked if other cities pay the finance director the same as the police chief.“I have worked with a myriad of cities and each is different,” and the importance of knowing “where your finances are” is of utmost importance, said Cosentini. “I think the finance director should be on par with the police chief. . .”
