Citizens' group recommends $2,500 pay hike for councillors

Incoming regional councillors are going to make about $2,500 a year more than expected thanks to a decision made by Halton council Wednesday. Council approved the raise that will go into effect December 1, taking councillors' salaries from $36,535 to $39,168. A boost in the regional chairman's wages-- from $144,828 a year to $147,029-- was also endorsed. The Citizen Advisory Committee on Council Remuneration, which consists of to cost eight Halton residents, recommended the raises to bring council's earnings up to par with other municipalities. The group will reconvene in two years to decide if a full salary market review is required. Regional Chairman Joyce Savoline commended the group one again for its efforts, noting, "It's a job we couldn't do effectively because of the awkwardness of it." The salary increases are expected the Region an extra $54,861 annually.