(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

tightening the reins

Salary freeze for Red Deer city council

Oct 1, 2019 | 6:00 AM

Red Deer city council will see no salary increase this year.

Council voted Monday to freeze the salaries for the mayor and its other eight members at their current rates.

“As we continue to navigate the current economic climate, it is imperative for council to demonstrate financial responsibility and leadership,” said Mayor Tara Veer. “Financial sustainability is one of our top priorities, and it’s critical that we look at all avenues for addressing the financial pressures we are facing as a result of the continuing provincial and local economic realities.”

RELATED: Red Deer city council votes to counter tax changes with salary increase

Veer added that council has asked administration to find $15 million in operational savings over the next three years, thus it is important for council to lead by example.

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As of Jan. 1, 2019, Red Deer’s mayor earns just over $131,000 annually, while councillors make just shy of $69,000.

Council compensation is reviewed annually and mid-term.