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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Prefer year-end bonus

Gary Crooks’ Opinion piece of May 1 contained a section about Spokane Valley City Council he phrased as “The Proposition.” Whether it be Spokane or Spokane Valley, the overriding premise of city council is that of volunteer public servants.

I am grateful for these courageous people. Seems like, though, this “entitlement” to generous monetary compensation tinges this otherwise noble service. I can see this if it was their full-time job. Everyone has bills to pay. Hence we get these weasel words when it comes to their time contribution and money they get. I have experienced volunteers resorting to this cheap defense when their performance is questioned by claiming they “work for no pay.”

I understand Spokane Valley council members get $800 monthly. This amount is easily double when medical and dental are added in. Way more if their family is also covered. Maybe if the city paid their medical/dental, car payment and home mortgage, they can say they serve for no monetary compensation.

I wish them all well and would prefer to see a year-end monetary bonus. If the city prospers, they should be generously rewarded for it.

Phil Zammit

Spokane

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