Pay raise prompts questions

I read your article concerning the 44 percent pay raise to be given to our city council members. I’ve never been on the council, nor have I read the requirements to become one. If elected to this position, does one have to give up their current business or job to allow them the time required to perform their elected duties? If these required duties are above their normal everyday routines, then I could see a increase in pay for expenses, cost of living etc.

I do have a hard time swallowing a 44 percent increase when they last received a raise in 2014. It was justified in part due to Spokane’s median household income. Have you checked with the school district to see how many kids are on free or reduced lunches, or that go to school early to have breakfast? Spokane is one of the poorest cities in the state in this respect. There are still too many working poor in this city.

The biggest problem that I have with this article is that there is no mention at all as to where this extra money is coming from. If the answer would be increased property or city taxes, then I would have to reply not one penny. I’m a disabled vet on Social Security. This means no cost-of-living raise for me this year.

The other thing that bothers me is the statement that now with more money, we can attract single parents, people of color, etc. to apply for these council positions. Single or married, white, black or orange, it doesn’t matter. You have no right to be on the council if money is the main reason or if you are not qualified.

Michael Elliott

Spokane