By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
“It’s almost become an elitist position.”
Outgoing Hays City Commissioner Kent Steward believes city commissioners are underpaid and that is “eliminating lots of people who would run for city commissioner.”
During Thursday night’s work session, he called for a discussion of a pay increase for city commissioners–“maybe $1,500 a month”–at the next work session.
Steward was quick to point out he would not benefit from any increase. Local city/school elections are April 7. Steward is not a candidate.
“People should be paid for what they do–our employees are. It’s the right thing to do,” he said.
“Many people need to work a second job or put in overtime. I think it’s important to pay city commissioners what they’re worth because it would make it accessible to far more citizens to serve on the city commission.”
Steward estimated he spends an “average of 20 hours a week” on city business, although it varies, and “more time is necessary during budget planning or during a demanding issue,” he added.
The current pay for Hays City Commissioners is $150 a month, according to city finance director Kim Rupp.