Both applaud Mayor Savage for leadership in taking 20 per cent salary cut
FALL RIVER/BEAVER BANK: Two local HRM councillors are considering their options as to what they can do following Mayor Mike Savage’s lead in taking a cut in his salary.
After reading about what Savage was doing—beginning April 1 he took a 20 per cent cut as a result of COVID19—The Laker News asked Middle/Upper Sackville-Lucasville-Beaver Bank representative Lisa Blackburn and Steve Streatch, who covers Waverley-Fall River-Musquodoboit Valley if they might be doing the same.
Streatch said he became aware of what Savage was doing on April 15. He is seeking further clarification as to how he, as a councillor, may be able to help in a meaningful way.
“I’m considering doing something similar but have not had the chance to confirm details with staff,” said Streatch in an email interview. “I may also consider donating an amount to some of the local district organizations that are in need, trying to help those in our communities, for example food bank, United way, meals to wheels, etc.
Blackburn said she’s doing what she can to help during this crisis and am having conversations with her husband on the best possible way for her family to do it.
“I think it would be unfair to give a specific figure or percentage, recognizing that all of us on Council have different circumstances,” said Blackburn. “I don’t want to contribute to an atmosphere of competition.”
She was also discussing the best ways for that assistance to be put forward.
“I’m also weighing whether a donation to a recognized local charity may be a better way to support our community now,” she said.
Streatch thought the topic might be one that him and his fellow councillors would be talking about over the coming days.
“I’m sure Councillors will be discussing the options over the next few days, and may come up with a collective approach, to do our part to share the burden of our residents,” he said.
The two were asked what they thought about Savage’s goodwill gesture.
“I think it is noble of the Mayor to make this decision and it is the right thing to do, considering how so many others are impacted by the economic fall out from this pandemic,” said Streatch. “We need to lead by example, and he has proven that he is prepared to do that, and I commend him.”
Blackburn agreed.
“I appreciate Mayor Savage’s demonstration of leadership,” she said. “It’s important to show our staff and all residents of HRM that we recognize the financial hit this pandemic has had on all of us.”
