UPDATE: Former Ulster County Legislator David Donaldson led a passionate call on July 15, 2023, urging local lawmakers to prohibit mid-term pay raises for themselves. During a public hearing in Kingston, NY, Donaldson described such actions as “unethical” and potentially illegal, emphasizing that legislators should honor the commitments made to their constituents.
Donaldson, who spent 28 years in the county Legislature, stated, “To get elected, you signed a two-year contract with your constituents that said you would serve for a set amount, and in less than a year, you reneged on that contract.” His remarks come amid growing public frustration over the integrity of elected officials, especially as national political scandals continue to unfold.
The urgent proposal also received support from former Senate candidate Patrick Sheehan, who bluntly told lawmakers, “If you don’t want to take the job for the salary it carried, there’s the door.” Sheehan’s comments echo a sentiment shared by many residents who feel legislators should prioritize their responsibilities over personal financial gain.
Adding to the chorus of discontent was Sarah Christensen, a county employee, who highlighted the plight of union workers who have not seen a pay raise in years. “While you guys voted in yourself a raise, we are still working outside of a contract,” she declared, underscoring the growing divide between elected officials and their constituents.
The backdrop to this heated discussion is a recent vote in February, where legislators approved mid-term salary increases ranging from 9.6% to 12.5% for themselves, a decision that sparked outrage among the public. In response, Legislator Jason Kovacs has proposed an amendment to the county charter and administrative code, stipulating that any pay raises for legislators would only take effect at the start of the next legislative term.
With public sentiment shifting rapidly, local legislators are now under pressure to act. The proposal to ban mid-term raises could redefine how elected officials approach their salaries and reinforce the commitment to ethical governance.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed and voice their opinions on this crucial measure. The potential changes in Ulster County could set a precedent for other regions grappling with similar issues of legislative integrity and accountability.
What happens next? The county legislature is expected to deliberate on the proposed changes in upcoming sessions, making this a pivotal moment for transparency and ethics in local governance. Residents are urged to participate in discussions and advocate for the standards they believe should govern their elected officials.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
