Indiana

Reality Checks and Balances

By Abdul Hakim-Shabazz

If there was ever another reason to get rid of township government, this is it.  The Wayne Township Board is voting on the following  tonight…

1. A pay increase for board members.
2. Payments into the Public Employees Retirement Fund for board members.
3. Health insurance for board members.

Right now board members make about $8500 a year.  That’s about $700 per monthly meeting.

I know of at least one board member who is voting yes.  Democrat Anna Peay.  In an e-mail I obtained she writes, and I am not making this up…

“I am voting yes on the pay increases and the option for benefits.  I do not want to end up like the city county council [sic] who hasn’t had a raise in 20 years.”

To the best of my knowledge, Republican board member Lisa Bentley is a “no” vote.  I’m not sure where all the other board members are, but if you’re a Wayne Township resident you might want to contact the township office and voice your opinion.

I think it’s damn foolish the  township board would vote itself these benefits in this economic climate where most regular people are lucky to keep their jobs, let alone retirement plans and health care.  Not to mention the property tax caps that fully kick in next year as well.

Refresh my memory, what purpose does township government serve again?

The Board Meeting is at 6 p.m. at the Wayne Township Government Center, 5401 West Washington Street.  (317) 241-4191

Full post as published by Indiana Barrister on December 10, 2009 (boomark / email).