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Town hall rich list revealed
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| Alan McCarthy earns £159,000 a year |
A rich list of council executives
has revealed the highest town hall
earners in Sussex.
More than a dozen officers across the
county earned £100,000 or more in the
year ending April 2007, according to figures
released under the Freedom of
Information Act.
Sussex's biggest council salary was
taken home by Brighton and Hove City
Council chief executive Alan McCarthy.
At £159,000, his earnings were up by
1.2 per cent on the previous year and
more than £20,000 above the £137,579
taken home by a Cabinet minister.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown earns
£188,849, including his MP's salary.
Mr McCarthy was joined at the council
by five other top earners, each on more
than £100,000, including the assistant
director of "quality of life and green
spaces" and the former headteacher of
Cardinal Newman school.
A spokesman for Brighton and Hove
City Council said: "In a market economy
everyone's salaries reflect the demand
for and supply of certain skills and
knowledge.
"Directors and the chief executives of
unitary councils like this are running
businesses with a £700 million-plus
turnover. These jobs and salaries are
openly advertised and subject to competitive
interviews.
"If there were huge numbers of people
willing and able to do the job, salaries
would be lower. But that is evidently not
the case."
Alex Knutsen, Unison branch secretary,
said the council should spend more
time ensuring fair pay for those further
down the earnings scale.
In 2005-6, the top earner in Sussex was
Sheryl Grady, then Worthing Borough
Council's chief executive, who had gone
on sick leave in December 2003.
She took early retirement and received
an undisclosed pay-off. Her total earnings
were £170,000, according to figures
released to the TaxPayers' Alliance.
Matthew Elliott, chief executive of the
Alliance, said: "Taxpayers have a right
to know how much senior town hall
officials are being paid because only then
can we judge whether they deserve their
remuneration.
"Too often council executives are
rewarded handsomely even when they
fail. Families and pensioners are struggling
with the demands of yet another
council tax rise and councils owe it to
them to cut back on executive pay hikes."
Arun District Council and East Sussex
County Council rejected the TaxPayers'
Alliance freedom of information request.
Ben Farrugia, TaxPayers' Alliance policy
analyst, said: "Some local government
executives still feel that what they're paid
is not the taxpayer's business.
"But with council tax bills now tipping
many families over the edge it is more
important than ever that councils are
open and transparent about their costs.
"Council employees must be accountable
to the local residents who pay them."
Do you think council officers deserve to be paid so much? Leave your comments below
2:10pm Friday 28th March 2008
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CommentPosted by: Stroller, Hove on 12:54pm Fri 28 Mar 08
What proof is there that Alan McCarthy would get a job in the private sector which pays £160,000?
What proof is there that Alan McCarthy would get a job in the private sector which pays £160,000?
Posted by: EC, Brighton on 1:01pm Fri 28 Mar 08
haha - he wouldnt last more than 10 minutes in the private sector. Having to deliver things on time and to budget? not a chance. People like him would never leave the gravy train that is local govenment...tickets please!!!
haha - he wouldnt last more than 10 minutes in the private sector. Having to deliver things on time and to budget? not a chance. People like him would never leave the gravy train that is local govenment...tickets please!!!
Posted by: anna, marina on 1:02pm Fri 28 Mar 08
I don't believe our council taxes should be going towards paying this fat cat. He doesn't work as hard as nurses at the hospital and what do they get? We all know how little they are paid. He should feel ashamed and offer to take less salary.
I don't believe our council taxes should be going towards paying this fat cat. He doesn't work as hard as nurses at the hospital and what do they get? We all know how little they are paid. He should feel ashamed and offer to take less salary.
Posted by: Paul, Brighton Born & Bred, Brighton on 1:19pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Value For Money? Considering recent debacles re: Schools Admissions, transport & parking, recent trashing of expensively refurbished council properties, lack of negotiating success with developers to obtain additional vital funding for our infrastructure etc, these salaries are outrageous!
I agree that they wouldn't get paid anywhere near that amount in the private sector & wouldn't be in a job for that long either!!
I would like to see a full list of those unelected officials' salaries that surpass £40K (I.E. more than double B&H average salary).
Value For Money? Considering recent debacles re: Schools Admissions, transport & parking, recent trashing of expensively refurbished council properties, lack of negotiating success with developers to obtain additional vital funding for our infrastructure etc, these salaries are outrageous!
I agree that they wouldn't get paid anywhere near that amount in the private sector & wouldn't be in a job for that long either!!
I would like to see a full list of those unelected officials' salaries that surpass £40K (I.E. more than double B&H average salary).
Posted by: Scorpion, Newhaven on 1:26pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Now why am I not surprised that ESCC refused the request? The question is, are they allowed to and will they be allowed to get aweay with it?
Now why am I not surprised that ESCC refused the request? The question is, are they allowed to and will they be allowed to get aweay with it?
Posted by: Sherman McCoy, Brighton on 1:45pm Fri 28 Mar 08
I am not surprised by the ignorance exhibited by some of the posters here. I think the head of Brighton council is worth every penny as he has to put up with a lot of c**p from Brighton residents who never stop whinging about one petty nuisance in their lives or another. Give him a break! If you look at the figures you will see he had a measly 1.2% below inflation rise last year. As he has said he is head of a multi-million pound business and he is worth every penny- keep up the good work Alan and don't listen to the whingebags
I am not surprised by the ignorance exhibited by some of the posters here. I think the head of Brighton council is worth every penny as he has to put up with a lot of c**p from Brighton residents who never stop whinging about one petty nuisance in their lives or another. Give him a break! If you look at the figures you will see he had a measly 1.2% below inflation rise last year. As he has said he is head of a multi-million pound business and he is worth every penny- keep up the good work Alan and don't listen to the whingebags
Posted by: Richard, Brighton on 1:47pm Fri 28 Mar 08
It would be interesting to know what these fat cat bosses actually do. Even if they don't have to deliver on budget or on time, there job must be so easy. Why are they paid so much money?? Surely that is driving up taxes that the good people such as me pay. In the private sector they would never survive and never get paid that money either.
Enjoy it Alan, you are still a complete an utter ****!!!
It would be interesting to know what these fat cat bosses actually do. Even if they don't have to deliver on budget or on time, there job must be so easy. Why are they paid so much money?? Surely that is driving up taxes that the good people such as me pay. In the private sector they would never survive and never get paid that money either.
Enjoy it Alan, you are still a complete an utter ****!!!
Posted by: sherman, Brighton on 1:53pm Fri 28 Mar 08
and another thing. There seems to be a certain amount of envy here judging by some fo the comments. Any one with time to post here is obviously either on the sick, unemployed or slacking off from their work so i say to all of you get back to your menial jobs and show some respect for your betters!
and another thing. There seems to be a certain amount of envy here judging by some fo the comments. Any one with time to post here is obviously either on the sick, unemployed or slacking off from their work so i say to all of you get back to your menial jobs and show some respect for your betters!
Posted by: David, Hove on 2:04pm Fri 28 Mar 08
This is so misleading.
The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.
This is so misleading.
The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.
Posted by: EC, Brighton on 2:10pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Sherman- I thought your surname should be banker...
Sherman- I thought your surname should be banker...
Posted by: Stroller, Hove on 2:17pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Multi-million pound business?
Hardly. In the private sector, that turnover would have to be generated by marketing a worthwhile product rather than sitting on compulsory payment of Council tax and copping Government grant.
Multi-million pound business?
Hardly. In the private sector, that turnover would have to be generated by marketing a worthwhile product rather than sitting on compulsory payment of Council tax and copping Government grant.
Posted by: Labour bile, smoke filled backroom on 2:26pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Oh, "Stroller"!
You are always such a bitter-at-life jealous of other people's success labour spite-monger. Why not acclaim other people's success in life like they do in other countries like the US?
Oh, it's because you're just bitter at the hand life has dealt you and you can't understand why no-one picked you instead. You'd not say no to that money would you? You'd swallow all your easy-to-hold-when-yo
u've-got-nowt principles in a flash.
Stoller - you are a jealous bitter person!
It will only get worse as you get more old.
Oh, "Stroller"!
You are always such a bitter-at-life jealous of other people's success labour spite-monger. Why not acclaim other people's success in life like they do in other countries like the US?
Oh, it's because you're just bitter at the hand life has dealt you and you can't understand why no-one picked you instead. You'd not say no to that money would you? You'd swallow all your easy-to-hold-when-yo
u've-got-nowt principles in a flash.
Stoller - you are a jealous bitter person!
It will only get worse as you get more old.
Posted by: Another David, Hove on 2:27pm Fri 28 Mar 08
[quote][bold]David[/bold] wrote:
This is so misleading. The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.[/quote] And you think he does not have an expense account?
David wrote:
This is so misleading. The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.
And you think he does not have an expense account?
Posted by: Barry, Walsingham Road on 2:32pm Fri 28 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Another David[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]David[/bold] wrote:
This is so misleading. The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.[/quote] And you think he does not have an expense account?[/quote] Yes, wasn't the previous chief executive always noshing in Hotel du Vin?
Another David wrote:
David wrote:
This is so misleading. The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.
And you think he does not have an expense account?
Yes, wasn't the previous chief executive always noshing in Hotel du Vin?
Posted by: David, Hove on 2:35pm Fri 28 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Another David[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]David[/bold] wrote: This is so misleading. The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.[/quote] And you think he does not have an expense account?[/quote] I am certain he has an expense account James. Whether he has a private jet, several grace and favour residences and the equivalant of all the well-publicised MP's benefits I sincerely doubt.
Another David wrote:
David wrote: This is so misleading. The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.
And you think he does not have an expense account?
I am certain he has an expense account James. Whether he has a private jet, several grace and favour residences and the equivalant of all the well-publicised MP's benefits I sincerely doubt.
Posted by: Quick!, To the battlements on 2:35pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Dear Memmbers of the Public,
Don't panic : most of the "reader comments" on this page are actually just by low-level local politicians and their cronies, researchers and family : all petrified what the public will think when they realize long the local gravy train really is and how perpetually slow everything is made to run in order to drag out years of these salaries from the public purse. This is how these people become what are called "career politicians"
The smell of money in the air? Watch out for the stampede these people make for it! Ah Bisto! Smell the gravy!
Dear Memmbers of the Public,
Don't panic : most of the "reader comments" on this page are actually just by low-level local politicians and their cronies, researchers and family : all petrified what the public will think when they realize long the local gravy train really is and how perpetually slow everything is made to run in order to drag out years of these salaries from the public purse. This is how these people become what are called "career politicians"
The smell of money in the air? Watch out for the stampede these people make for it! Ah Bisto! Smell the gravy!
Posted by: Mixer, Brighton on 2:41pm Fri 28 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Barry[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Another David[/bold] wrote: [quote][bold]David[/bold] wrote: This is so misleading. The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.[/quote] And you think he does not have an expense account?[/quote] Yes, wasn't the previous chief executive always noshing in Hotel du Vin?[/quote] My God - 'Man on good salary in nice restaurant' - what a scandal.
Barry wrote:
Another David wrote: David wrote: This is so misleading. The PM & Cabinet get a myriad of expenses and allowances not included here. Also I dont think £160k is over the odds for such an important role - the question is whether we are currently getting value for money (definitely not in my opinion). I'm all for a bit of juicy gossip but this doesn't wash.
And you think he does not have an expense account?
Yes, wasn't the previous chief executive always noshing in Hotel du Vin?
My God - 'Man on good salary in nice restaurant' - what a scandal.
Posted by: Officer X, MI6 on 2:42pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Anybody know how much Environment Director, Jenny Rowlands is pulling down?
Anybody know how much Environment Director, Jenny Rowlands is pulling down?
Posted by: FRED, worthing on 3:07pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Can any body inform me what does a person in charge of "Quality Of Life And Green Spaces" do?
Can any body inform me what does a person in charge of "Quality Of Life And Green Spaces" do?
Posted by: sc, Slough Vegas on 3:15pm Fri 28 Mar 08
[quote]Can any body inform me what does a person in charge of "Quality Of Life And Green Spaces" do?[/quote]
Pay themselves loads of cash and buy a house with a big garden?
Can any body inform me what does a person in charge of "Quality Of Life And Green Spaces" do?
Pay themselves loads of cash and buy a house with a big garden?
Posted by: nevahwen, at my desk on 3:22pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Those councils (Arun and East Sussex County Council)who won't answer the question clearly don't feel they can justify what they earn? I've never been keen on Alan McCarthy because of his stance on incineration but at least he's not ashamed of what he earns. Whether I think he's worth it is another matter.
Those councils (Arun and East Sussex County Council)who won't answer the question clearly don't feel they can justify what they earn? I've never been keen on Alan McCarthy because of his stance on incineration but at least he's not ashamed of what he earns. Whether I think he's worth it is another matter.
Posted by: jim jim, some wear in the city on 3:38pm Fri 28 Mar 08
he needs the money 1st class to new zealand
he needs the money 1st class to new zealand
Posted by: philip.fore, brighton on 3:46pm Fri 28 Mar 08
These people are not worth their salaries. In the UK we have reached the point of no return with far too many managers and far too few workers. Just look at the state of the goverment departments, noone seems to know what the other is doing. A real prime example being the new terminus 5 at Heathrow. Executives should be made to work for at least five years beside the people who actually do the job to know what really goes on. We keep producing these so called `managers` who do not seem to have a clue about the real world.[bold]bold[/bold]
These people are not worth their salaries. In the UK we have reached the point of no return with far too many managers and far too few workers. Just look at the state of the goverment departments, noone seems to know what the other is doing. A real prime example being the new terminus 5 at Heathrow. Executives should be made to work for at least five years beside the people who actually do the job to know what really goes on. We keep producing these so called `managers` who do not seem to have a clue about the real world.
Posted by: homer, springfield on 4:28pm Fri 28 Mar 08
all politicians, whether local or national should be paid by results. this means they would all be on the bread line. these people are elected by the public and as such should be working for the good of all people, not just lining their own pockets. in private businesses, directors have to answer to shareholders. council have to answer to the electorate. come on councillors, earn your money, don't waste ours on stupid ideas.
all politicians, whether local or national should be paid by results. this means they would all be on the bread line. these people are elected by the public and as such should be working for the good of all people, not just lining their own pockets. in private businesses, directors have to answer to shareholders. council have to answer to the electorate. come on councillors, earn your money, don't waste ours on stupid ideas.
Posted by: BARRIE ROGER ENGLAND on 4:50pm Fri 28 Mar 08
We are so stupid that we let them get away with all this C**p.When will someone standup and say enough is enough?
We are so stupid that we let them get away with all this C**p.When will someone standup and say enough is enough?
Posted by: Roger Barrie England, Cocoa beach, Florida on 4:59pm Fri 28 Mar 08
[quote][bold]BARRIE ROGER ENGLAND[/bold] wrote:
We are so stupid that we let them get away with all this C**p.When will someone standup and say enough is enough?[/quote] Why don't you do it? Also you could always have a go at being a councilor yourself - nothing stopping you and you are halfway there with your name. go on Roger Barrie, before someone rogers you.
BARRIE ROGER ENGLAND wrote:
We are so stupid that we let them get away with all this C**p.When will someone standup and say enough is enough?
Why don't you do it? Also you could always have a go at being a councilor yourself - nothing stopping you and you are halfway there with your name. go on Roger Barrie, before someone rogers you.
Posted by: Flat Foot Soozie, Brunswick Square on 5:00pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Didn't the Tories say that they were going to cut down on all this sort of thing?
Didn't the Tories say that they were going to cut down on all this sort of thing?
Posted by: Bert on 5:57pm Fri 28 Mar 08
I don't see that it's that much for running an organisation that spends hundreds of millions of quid a year, wherever the money comes from. Compared with the salaries of bankers or footballers (all of whose wages we pay for one way or another), it seems like a bargain.
I don't see that it's that much for running an organisation that spends hundreds of millions of quid a year, wherever the money comes from. Compared with the salaries of bankers or footballers (all of whose wages we pay for one way or another), it seems like a bargain.
Posted by: angela, Hove on 6:47pm Fri 28 Mar 08
It would be a bargain if he could cut out all the other fat in the council, nice big pensions etc that poor overworked private sector employees have to subsidise and look with envy at.
It would be a bargain if he could cut out all the other fat in the council, nice big pensions etc that poor overworked private sector employees have to subsidise and look with envy at.
Posted by: Jamie, Hove on 6:57pm Fri 28 Mar 08
No he probably doesn't deserve that salary, but why should anyone be surprised - that's why these idiots try so hard to get themselves elected ?
Why not stop carping and try training yourself up for his job instead - then you can take a 80% salary cut and feel morally superior.
The world is full of these scroungers, don't let it get you down.
No he probably doesn't deserve that salary, but why should anyone be surprised - that's why these idiots try so hard to get themselves elected ?
Why not stop carping and try training yourself up for his job instead - then you can take a 80% salary cut and feel morally superior.
The world is full of these scroungers, don't let it get you down.
Posted by: nevahwen, at my desk on 7:02pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Alan McCarthy (featured in the article) is not an elected councillor - they get a lot less. Alan McCarthy is the chief executive of BH&CC - what used to be called a public servant but now known as an officer of the Council.
Alan McCarthy (featured in the article) is not an elected councillor - they get a lot less. Alan McCarthy is the chief executive of BH&CC - what used to be called a public servant but now known as an officer of the Council.
Posted by: nevahwen, at my desk on 7:02pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Alan McCarthy (featured in the article) is not an elected councillor - they get a lot less. Alan McCarthy is the chief executive of BH&CC - what used to be called a public servant but now known as an officer of the Council.
Alan McCarthy (featured in the article) is not an elected councillor - they get a lot less. Alan McCarthy is the chief executive of BH&CC - what used to be called a public servant but now known as an officer of the Council.
Posted by: Jack, Brighton on 7:35pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Yes, £7500 a month he is paid after deductions. An overpaid pen pushing, self-interested individual. Like the rest of them, these individuals overvalue themselves.
Yes, £7500 a month he is paid after deductions. An overpaid pen pushing, self-interested individual. Like the rest of them, these individuals overvalue themselves.
Posted by: Edwin Scott, Hove on 7:47pm Fri 28 Mar 08
This guy McCarthy was heavily behind the King Alfred, and leant on Oxley
This guy McCarthy was heavily behind the King Alfred, and leant on Oxley
Posted by: John on 10:13pm Fri 28 Mar 08
[italic]"Directors and the chief executives of unitary councils like this are running businesses with a £700 million-plus turnover. These jobs and salaries are openly advertised and subject to competitive interviews"[/italic]
Yes, they are turning over 700 million but they don't have to make any profit so it's not remotely like running a business. If these experts ran a business in the same way they ran a council they'd have gone bust a long time ago.
As for the open interview process to be a top official in a council means you would have already worked many years in a council thereby perpetuating the bad practices and wastage that are commonplace.
Although there are some who are genuinely good at what they do there are far, far too many who have been promoted to their level of incompetence.
"Directors and the chief executives of unitary councils like this are running businesses with a £700 million-plus turnover. These jobs and salaries are openly advertised and subject to competitive interviews"
Yes, they are turning over 700 million but they don't have to make any profit so it's not remotely like running a business. If these experts ran a business in the same way they ran a council they'd have gone bust a long time ago.
As for the open interview process to be a top official in a council means you would have already worked many years in a council thereby perpetuating the bad practices and wastage that are commonplace.
Although there are some who are genuinely good at what they do there are far, far too many who have been promoted to their level of incompetence.
Posted by: Paul, Worthing on 10:49pm Fri 28 Mar 08
It's so easy to have a pop at those in public service. All those people who say that Chief Officers of Councils are lazy good for nothings who don't deserve their earnings have no idea what they are talking about. Mr McCarthy et al, whether you like them or not, spend hours attending really boring meetings, have to deal with numbskull politicians every day (reining them in from their silly grandiose plans) and have to steady the ship so that we get value for our Council Tax money.
Rubbish collections for about 60p a week, leisure centres, environmental health, social services, education and so many other services. These people are ultimately in charge of it all.
Do we hear about how much the boss of Tesco earns, or your local bank branch, or stockbrokers. Of course not - because they are paid their market value and would not share information about their salaries in a million years.
It's so easy to have a pop at those in public service. All those people who say that Chief Officers of Councils are lazy good for nothings who don't deserve their earnings have no idea what they are talking about. Mr McCarthy et al, whether you like them or not, spend hours attending really boring meetings, have to deal with numbskull politicians every day (reining them in from their silly grandiose plans) and have to steady the ship so that we get value for our Council Tax money.
Rubbish collections for about 60p a week, leisure centres, environmental health, social services, education and so many other services. These people are ultimately in charge of it all.
Do we hear about how much the boss of Tesco earns, or your local bank branch, or stockbrokers. Of course not - because they are paid their market value and would not share information about their salaries in a million years.
Posted by: simon sutton, brighton on 11:22pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Life in the cosy bubble! If these mega-wage earners could cut it in the real world then all well and good but how is B&HCC delivering the sort of services that justify these enormous salaries? What would also be illuminating would be for the Argus to uncover how much of tax payers money these big earners spend on external consultants to do the work that they should perhaps be doing themselves.
Life in the cosy bubble! If these mega-wage earners could cut it in the real world then all well and good but how is B&HCC delivering the sort of services that justify these enormous salaries? What would also be illuminating would be for the Argus to uncover how much of tax payers money these big earners spend on external consultants to do the work that they should perhaps be doing themselves.
Posted by: David, London on 6:37am Sat 29 Mar 08
[quote][bold]sherman[/bold] wrote:
and another thing. There seems to be a certain amount of envy here judging by some fo the comments. Any one with time to post here is obviously either on the sick, unemployed or slacking off from their work so i say to all of you get back to your menial jobs and show some respect for your betters![/quote] Is Sherman being serious?
sherman wrote:
and another thing. There seems to be a certain amount of envy here judging by some fo the comments. Any one with time to post here is obviously either on the sick, unemployed or slacking off from their work so i say to all of you get back to your menial jobs and show some respect for your betters!
Is Sherman being serious?
Posted by: Paul, Worthing on 6:46am Sat 29 Mar 08
[quote][bold]simon sutton[/bold] wrote:
Life in the cosy bubble! If these mega-wage earners could cut it in the real world then all well and good but how is B&HCC delivering the sort of services that justify these enormous salaries? What would also be illuminating would be for the Argus to uncover how much of tax payers money these big earners spend on external consultants to do the work that they should perhaps be doing themselves.[/quote] The last point is an easy one to answer. Politicians like consultants - they digest the information fed to them from Council Officers and churn it out in nice fancy reports. Councillors like that - they don't trust the Officers to give the answer because they think that the officers have a vested interest. Yet, ultimately all the consultant does is dress it up in the emporers new clothes, for a hefty fee of course!
simon sutton wrote:
Life in the cosy bubble! If these mega-wage earners could cut it in the real world then all well and good but how is B&HCC delivering the sort of services that justify these enormous salaries? What would also be illuminating would be for the Argus to uncover how much of tax payers money these big earners spend on external consultants to do the work that they should perhaps be doing themselves.
The last point is an easy one to answer. Politicians like consultants - they digest the information fed to them from Council Officers and churn it out in nice fancy reports. Councillors like that - they don't trust the Officers to give the answer because they think that the officers have a vested interest. Yet, ultimately all the consultant does is dress it up in the emporers new clothes, for a hefty fee of course!
Posted by: Barbara on 11:14am Sat 29 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Sherman McCoy[/bold] wrote:
I am not surprised by the ignorance exhibited by some of the posters here. I think the head of Brighton council is worth every penny as he has to put up with a lot of c**p from Brighton residents who never stop whinging about one petty nuisance in their lives or another. Give him a break! If you look at the figures you will see he had a measly 1.2% below inflation rise last year. As he has said he is head of a multi-million pound business and he is worth every penny- keep up the good work Alan and don\'t listen to the whingebags [/quote] Of course he earns his money!!! That is why the Council has allowed Fly Tipping in our cul-de-sac....they can't afford to shift it. Meantime the three blind neighbours and other disabled residents have to walk the minefield. MORE to the point though, Cityclean has been informed but nothing about it. Don't preach quality until you achioeve it.[bold]bold[/bold]
Sherman McCoy wrote:
I am not surprised by the ignorance exhibited by some of the posters here. I think the head of Brighton council is worth every penny as he has to put up with a lot of c**p from Brighton residents who never stop whinging about one petty nuisance in their lives or another. Give him a break! If you look at the figures you will see he had a measly 1.2% below inflation rise last year. As he has said he is head of a multi-million pound business and he is worth every penny- keep up the good work Alan and don\'t listen to the whingebags
Of course he earns his money!!! That is why the Council has allowed Fly Tipping in our cul-de-sac....they can't afford to shift it. Meantime the three blind neighbours and other disabled residents have to walk the minefield. MORE to the point though, Cityclean has been informed but nothing about it. Don't preach quality until you achioeve it.
Posted by: michael, brighton on 11:46am Sat 29 Mar 08
The question is not what the job is worth - if it were done very well £159,000 might be justifiable - but how and why such a mediocre incumbent was appointed and why he is not sacked.
The question is not what the job is worth - if it were done very well £159,000 might be justifiable - but how and why such a mediocre incumbent was appointed and why he is not sacked.
Posted by: John on 12:23pm Sat 29 Mar 08
[italic]Do we hear about how much the boss of Tesco earns, or your local bank branch, or stockbrokers. Of course not - because they are paid their market value and would not share information about their salaries in a million years.[/italic]
Actually Paul old son the directors of public companies have to make their remuneration available in the accounts - so if the councils are so quick to compare their organisations to business they should abide by the same rules
Do we hear about how much the boss of Tesco earns, or your local bank branch, or stockbrokers. Of course not - because they are paid their market value and would not share information about their salaries in a million years.
Actually Paul old son the directors of public companies have to make their remuneration available in the accounts - so if the councils are so quick to compare their organisations to business they should abide by the same rules
Posted by: Someone, Somewhere on 12:33pm Sat 29 Mar 08
I'm sure you lot could all do a much better job, couldn't you? *rolls eyes*
I'm sure you lot could all do a much better job, couldn't you? *rolls eyes*
Posted by: b, Brighton on 2:03pm Sat 29 Mar 08
What skills do they have to warrant such vulgar salaries? I have a small shop, work all hours and my rates have gone up, for what - their salaries and Pensions i expect
What skills do they have to warrant such vulgar salaries? I have a small shop, work all hours and my rates have gone up, for what - their salaries and Pensions i expect
Posted by: michael on 2:27pm Sat 29 Mar 08
"Do we hear about how much the boss of Tesco earns. Of course not"
Well thanks, John, for that priceless piece of ignorance. Now try googling "Tesco chief executive salary" and see if you can understand what you see.
"Do we hear about how much the boss of Tesco earns. Of course not"
Well thanks, John, for that priceless piece of ignorance. Now try googling "Tesco chief executive salary" and see if you can understand what you see.
Posted by: michael on 2:30pm Sat 29 Mar 08
correction to my post above - sorry, john, I didn't notice you were quoting paul - you are the knowledgeable one - he is the ignorant one
correction to my post above - sorry, john, I didn't notice you were quoting paul - you are the knowledgeable one - he is the ignorant one
Posted by: Flat Foot Soozie, Brunswick Square on 3:05pm Sat 29 Mar 08
I shall not be applying for the post of Chief Executive when it falls vacant.
I shouldn't exactly welcome Alan McCarthy in my bed but it would be preferable to finding Councillor Watkins there.
I shall not be applying for the post of Chief Executive when it falls vacant.
I shouldn't exactly welcome Alan McCarthy in my bed but it would be preferable to finding Councillor Watkins there.
Posted by: Mr Watkins, Brunswick on 4:09pm Sat 29 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Flat Foot Soozie[/bold] wrote:
I shall not be applying for the post of Chief Executive when it falls vacant. I shouldn't exactly welcome Alan McCarthy in my bed but it would be preferable to finding Councillor Watkins there. [/quote] For f***s sake FFS, ever heard the expression 'those who are getting it don't need to talk about it?'
I know you don't work because you are a pensioner, but try & get a life - oops, this website IS your life, I forgot.
Flat Foot Soozie wrote:
I shall not be applying for the post of Chief Executive when it falls vacant. I shouldn't exactly welcome Alan McCarthy in my bed but it would be preferable to finding Councillor Watkins there.
For f***s sake FFS, ever heard the expression 'those who are getting it don't need to talk about it?'
I know you don't work because you are a pensioner, but try & get a life - oops, this website IS your life, I forgot.
Posted by: dave, gatwick on 5:52pm Sat 29 Mar 08
This is a gravy train funded by council tax. What exactly do we get for all the council tax we pay and councillors on £159K? We get less rubbish collections, poor roads, mis management and a step further to chinese style democracy.
This is a gravy train funded by council tax. What exactly do we get for all the council tax we pay and councillors on £159K? We get less rubbish collections, poor roads, mis management and a step further to chinese style democracy.
Posted by: linda, hove on 7:35pm Sat 29 Mar 08
There was a time,like magistrates, when these posts were strictly voluntary, with no pay and probably just reimbursement of reasonable expenses. It's about time that local councillors went back to this philanthropic and selfless assistance to their community, which could be done in their own spare time. After seeing the b****up of the cycle lanes in Grand Ave-The Drive just so they could pocket the Government grant for the tax year, it really begs belief any payment should be made.
There was a time,like magistrates, when these posts were strictly voluntary, with no pay and probably just reimbursement of reasonable expenses. It's about time that local councillors went back to this philanthropic and selfless assistance to their community, which could be done in their own spare time. After seeing the b****up of the cycle lanes in Grand Ave-The Drive just so they could pocket the Government grant for the tax year, it really begs belief any payment should be made.
Posted by: Oooooh Jay, Shoreham on 7:51pm Sat 29 Mar 08
People of the world....join in....on a gravy train.....a gravy train
People of the world....join in....on a gravy train.....a gravy train
Posted by: Stroller, Hove on 9:42pm Sat 29 Mar 08
Yes, the ridiculous Grand Avenue cycle lane only adds to the King Alfred to mean that the Conservatives will lose Central ward.
That cycle lane is not used. It goes nowhere that cyclists want to go.
Jesus Christ, don't they realise that is should be a system of flat routes?
Yes, the ridiculous Grand Avenue cycle lane only adds to the King Alfred to mean that the Conservatives will lose Central ward.
That cycle lane is not used. It goes nowhere that cyclists want to go.
Jesus Christ, don't they realise that is should be a system of flat routes?
Posted by: Jesus Christ, All around you on 11:50pm Sat 29 Mar 08
Carefull Stroller
Posted by: scott on 12:36am Sun 30 Mar 08
1 1 1
There are too many fat cats getting rich at the taxpayers expense. Their salaries should be reduced.
1 1 1
1 1 1
There are too many fat cats getting rich at the taxpayers expense. Their salaries should be reduced.
1 1 1
Posted by: Paul, UK on 12:43am Sun 30 Mar 08
These civil servants serve us the people of the town. It's about time we got value for money from them. There are too many fat cats getting rich while taxpayers pick up the tab.
These civil servants serve us the people of the town. It's about time we got value for money from them. There are too many fat cats getting rich while taxpayers pick up the tab.
Posted by: Underpaid accountant, Crawley on 5:15am Sun 30 Mar 08
A table of job specs
against salaries is always a good idea.
Could we get one published plus the percentage of achievements against
objectives achieved
by each individual ?
A table of job specs
against salaries is always a good idea.
Could we get one published plus the percentage of achievements against
objectives achieved
by each individual ?
Posted by: IT specialist, Brighton on 11:25am Sun 30 Mar 08
Having worked in both the private and public sectors in similar roles, my experience is that life is considerably softer in the private sector. Before you fly off the handle about the minor failings of BHCC staff, you might consider that the boss of Northern Rock has put the taxpayer at risk of 25 billion (yes billion!) pounds of losses. The [quote]tough[/quote] private sector has awarded him a payoff of £750,000 and a £2.5m pension pot.
Having worked in both the private and public sectors in similar roles, my experience is that life is considerably softer in the private sector. Before you fly off the handle about the minor failings of BHCC staff, you might consider that the boss of Northern Rock has put the taxpayer at risk of 25 billion (yes billion!) pounds of losses. The
tough
private sector has awarded him a payoff of £750,000 and a £2.5m pension pot.
Posted by: Reposessed on 10:31pm Sun 30 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Sherman McCoy[/bold] wrote:
I am not surprised by the ignorance exhibited by some of the posters here. I think the head of Brighton council is worth every penny as he has to put up with a lot of c**p from Brighton residents who never stop whinging about one petty nuisance in their lives or another. Give him a break! If you look at the figures you will see he had a measly 1.2% below inflation rise last year. As he has said he is head of a multi-million pound business and he is worth every penny- keep up the good work Alan and don't listen to the whingebags [/quote] Thats just it, Brighton Council isn't a business, its a service, paid for out of our council taxes and should be prohibited from paying huge salaries
to those at the top, while the man on the street struggles to survive, power to the people, revolution.
Sherman McCoy wrote:
I am not surprised by the ignorance exhibited by some of the posters here. I think the head of Brighton council is worth every penny as he has to put up with a lot of c**p from Brighton residents who never stop whinging about one petty nuisance in their lives or another. Give him a break! If you look at the figures you will see he had a measly 1.2% below inflation rise last year. As he has said he is head of a multi-million pound business and he is worth every penny- keep up the good work Alan and don't listen to the whingebags
Thats just it, Brighton Council isn't a business, its a service, paid for out of our council taxes and should be prohibited from paying huge salaries
to those at the top, while the man on the street struggles to survive, power to the people, revolution.
Posted by: modelo1a, Brighton on 12:39pm Mon 31 Mar 08
[quote][bold]b[/bold] wrote:
What skills do they have to warrant such vulgar salaries? I have a small shop, work all hours and my rates have gone up, for what - their salaries and Pensions i expect[/quote] Barclays bloke gets paid £21m last week. This bloke has a salary in excess of £150000. Right. How do you justify either? Barclays - like all banks - highway robbers. Our council...a joke. Inconvenience us by digging up all the roads, then increase council rates, annually, above inflation, and we're just meant to grin and bear it. I work hard, long hours, and get paid not even a reasonable salary. All a bunch of champagne-swilling, back-slapping charlatans. As to this joker who says that the head is worth every penny...blloocks!!! Don't blame the residents for his salary. Load of old nonsense!!! Cackbadger
b wrote:
What skills do they have to warrant such vulgar salaries? I have a small shop, work all hours and my rates have gone up, for what - their salaries and Pensions i expect
Barclays bloke gets paid £21m last week. This bloke has a salary in excess of £150000. Right. How do you justify either? Barclays - like all banks - highway robbers. Our council...a joke. Inconvenience us by digging up all the roads, then increase council rates, annually, above inflation, and we're just meant to grin and bear it. I work hard, long hours, and get paid not even a reasonable salary. All a bunch of champagne-swilling, back-slapping charlatans. As to this joker who says that the head is worth every penny...blloocks!!! Don't blame the residents for his salary. Load of old nonsense!!! Cackbadger
Posted by: KenbyTheSea, Worthing on 11:43am Tue 1 Apr 08
Seems to me that the majority of posters on here have no conception of the organisational, practical, and political difficulties of running a large local government organisation like B&H. You might try looking at the person spec and job description some time to get a better idea of why a Chief Exec is worth that kind of money. You certainly won't get anyone good enough for less than your present guy is bing paid.
Seems to me that the majority of posters on here have no conception of the organisational, practical, and political difficulties of running a large local government organisation like B&H. You might try looking at the person spec and job description some time to get a better idea of why a Chief Exec is worth that kind of money. You certainly won't get anyone good enough for less than your present guy is bing paid.
Posted by: Linda, hove on 5:24pm Tue 1 Apr 08
[quote][bold]KenbyTheSea[/bold] wrote:
Seems to me that the majority of posters on here have no conception of the organisational, practical, and political difficulties of running a large local government organisation like B&H. You might try looking at the person spec and job description some time to get a better idea of why a Chief Exec is worth that kind of money. You certainly won\'t get anyone good enough for less than your present guy is bing paid.[/quote] That doesn't get away from the fact that this job was unpaid used to be a service to the community. It could not be compared to private industry. Magistrates are not paid (they claim reasonable expenses) and do a valuable job for the community in their own time. When I had to attend a council meeting as a representative recently, I was not at all impressed with the calibre of some of the councillors and wondered how far they would go in the private sector.
KenbyTheSea wrote:
Seems to me that the majority of posters on here have no conception of the organisational, practical, and political difficulties of running a large local government organisation like B&H. You might try looking at the person spec and job description some time to get a better idea of why a Chief Exec is worth that kind of money. You certainly won\'t get anyone good enough for less than your present guy is bing paid.
That doesn't get away from the fact that this job was unpaid used to be a service to the community. It could not be compared to private industry. Magistrates are not paid (they claim reasonable expenses) and do a valuable job for the community in their own time. When I had to attend a council meeting as a representative recently, I was not at all impressed with the calibre of some of the councillors and wondered how far they would go in the private sector.
Posted by: Kev Sowells, Hove on 1:08pm Wed 2 Apr 08
If he could successfully run a company in the private sector with a turnover of £700 million, then he would be, because he would be getting a lot more what he gets now, including a huge annual bonus. Maybe he has a very creative expense account like the MPs and this makes up for it.
If he could successfully run a company in the private sector with a turnover of £700 million, then he would be, because he would be getting a lot more what he gets now, including a huge annual bonus. Maybe he has a very creative expense account like the MPs and this makes up for it.
Posted by: Brighton born 'n bred, brighton on 5:53pm Thu 3 Apr 08
Don't forget it's Alan "Buggin's Turn" McCarthy ! It would be interesting to know how many Chief Execs had private sector experience on their cvs, to show they'd achieved something in the real world, rather than snuffling around in the trough of public money throughout their working lives.
Don't forget it's Alan "Buggin's Turn" McCarthy ! It would be interesting to know how many Chief Execs had private sector experience on their cvs, to show they'd achieved something in the real world, rather than snuffling around in the trough of public money throughout their working lives.
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