Californias worst-run city could give council members $108K raises

Oakland has an illegal dumping epidemic, high crime, a homelessness crisis that has doubled over the last decade and other strained services due to its structural budget deficit.And yet, the city’s mayor wants to reward her fellow politicians with a raise.Oakland city council members could get a $108,000 pay and benefits bump under Measure EE, which is backed by Mayor Barbara Lee.It would give City Hall’s top elected official more control over the city while opening the door to substantial compensation increases for the eight-member council.  The biggest news, opinion and culture shaping California right now.

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Never miss a story The proposal comes as Oakland’s previous mayor, Sheng Thao, is on trial for an alleged pay-to-play corruption scheme.Oakland’s dysfunction prompted Lee and supporters outside of City Hall to push for the reforms — but little attention has been paid to the pay and benefits hike, which could climb to roughly $256,500 per council member, according to an Oakland Report analysis.The mayor’s campaign selling Measure EE to voters has largely omitted these details.Council members currently earn a base salary of $114,243.Oakland Report estimated their annual compensation at about $148,500 when benefits are included. City Auditor Michael Houston projects additional salary and benefit costs of $36,000 to $108,000 per member, with the council’s combined first-year increase reaching as much as $867,000.Oakland Report found the Yes on EE campaign’s website, frequently asked questions and supporting ballot arguments did not mention the projected raises, instead emphasizing accountability and making council service a full-time job.Voters rejected a parcel tax in June that would have raised about $34 million annually.

Without the money, city officials anticipated freezing vacant positions...