Smith Opposes Panel Recommendation for Salary Increase

Council Chair Bartenfelder Says Council Also Rejects Increase 

Towson, Md. (November 24, 2009) - Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith and Baltimore County Council Chair Joe Bartenfelder both indicated that no legislation will be introduced to change the salary for either the County Executive or County Council for the next four-year term. County Executive Smith and Chairman Bartenfelder issued the following statements today regarding the recommendation of the independent Personnel Salary and Advisory Board that the salary of the next County Executive be increased by eight percent and County Council by two percent: 

Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith Remarks

"I understand that the Personnel Salary and Advisory Board (PSAB) is mandated by State and County law to submit a compensation analysis and recommendation for both the County Council and County Executive early in the fourth year of the term of each Council. I appreciate the panel's hard work and commitment to complying with the law. However, even though the PSAB recommendation is based upon an analysis of the salary structure in surrounding jurisdictions and wage increases received by County employees over the past four years, I do not believe that this is the time to raise the salary of elected officials. We are in the midst of a very difficult economy, and individuals and families are working hard to make ends meet. I have informed Council Chair Bartenfelder that I will not submit legislation recommending a salary increase for the next County Executive."

Baltimore County Council Chair Joe Bartenfelder Remarks

"I've spoken with members of the County Council and it is clear to me that there is absolutely no interest in recommending a salary increase for Council members. The PSAB proposal was dead on arrival. I understand that failure to consider the salary increase means that Council salaries will be frozen for at least four more years, but in this economy that is the right thing to do. As elected officials, we have to walk side by side with those we represent."