We need redo of contracts, not more tax

On March 24, I sent a letter to all of Chico’s council members, City Manager Mark Orme, Financial Services Director Scott Dowell and a friend of mine, the operator of Chico Taxpayer Association’s blog.

The letter was entitled “Accountability On Municipal Enhancements Expected.” To date no one from the city has responded to my extensive challenge to show why we, the citizens of Chico, should be compelled to pay one thin dime toward Chico’s disastrous pension shortfalls nor their ridiculous salary schedules.

Check out online, at commentreply@wordpress.com, the complete letter, of my feelings about the abusive, conflicted and dark of night self benefiting decisions being explored via consultants about pension obligation bonds. These bonds would indirectly feed atrocious benefit and salary packages. Additionally, a revamped proposal to increase the sales tax rate is also on the table. City staff would have you believe they need extra revenue for infrastructure etc. Don’t fall for their lies. What is needed is a complete redo of all employee contracts.

The standard position is “we seek your input.” Well you’ve got mine! I challenge you all to respond to, with sincerity my call for a referendum on city salaries, perks, including the pension elephant. Input is needed but complying to constituent call outs is better. I wrote to this paper about transparency — does Chico abide to one way mirror or clear glass versions. We need more than lip service when it comes to being “true public servants.” Otherwise, our say so amounts to nothing.

— Joe Azzarito, Chico