My 2 Cents: OKC City Council Looks At Raises For Members, Mayor

I haven't always agreed with Ward 2 City Councilman Ed Shadid during his eight years on the City Council, but he frequently brings a thought-provoking perspective to issues.

He's retiring from his seat, but he's recommending a change that is thought provoking to say the least.

Shadid is expected to propose a pay raise for OKC City Council members and the Mayor. Well, calling it a raise may be a bit of an understatement.

You see, after eight years on the horseshoe, and as a frequent contrarian to council actions to the point of threatening to sue over what he called back room deals, Shadid could stir it up one last time.

The raise he's proposing is not to line the pockets of city leaders, but to hopefully insulate them from bribes and other temptations. Their pay would triple, perhaps making it feasible for more people to consider serving on the council or as mayor and still making a living.

Council members would jump from $12,000 a year to more than $36,000.

The mayor's pay from $24,000 to $72,000.  

Ultimately, city voters would have to decide the issue if the council approves it for a vote.

In my opinion, tripling their pay may be a bit difficult for voters to swallow, but they may be able to make a case for doubling it.

I'm Kelly Ogle and that's My 2 Cents.