Bristol Councilors Question Proposed Salary Increases in FY13 Budget

While the town of Bristol has attempted to cut corners on departmental budgets to , Bristol Town Councilors questioned the Administrator's proposed salary increases for some town employees.

"Overall, there's about a three percent increase for most positions," said Town Administrator Diane Mederos. "There are a few who I recommended about a five percent increase for."

According to the proposed budget, Town Hall employees including the Principal Planner and Zoning Official, the Director of Community Development, the Administrator's Executive Secretary, and two employees in the Finance Department could see a five percent increase in salary for FY13.

Councilor Mary Parella spoke up first.

"I think it is kind of high when you're talking about zero increase in other places," Parella said.

But Mederos quickly rebutted explaining the reason for her request for an increase, stating that her decision was based on the amount of responsibilty that goes along with the positions.

But Councilor Teixeira also spoke up, agreeing with Parella.

"I understand what you're saying, I mean, who doesn't deserve the money they've earned," Teixeira said. "But I think five percent is a little steep."

Mederos noted that the Council has the final say, and Councilors agreed to revisit the issue again toward the end of the budget sessions.