Councillor opposes new deputy chief role at time of austerity
A CASH-STRAPPED council should not be creating a new senior role at a time of austerity, a Ukip councillor has argued.
Coun David Robson, who represents Bridlington South Ward, is opposing the creation of a new title of deputy chief executive for Alan Menzies, who is currently director for planning and economic regeneration at East Riding Council.
It comes after Caroline Lacey, director of corporate resources, was recommended to take over as £148,000-a-year chief executive from Nigel Pearson, who is retiring.
The Yorkshire Post understands Mr Menzies will get a pay rise, but Mrs Lacey will be on around £12,000 less than Mr Pearson, meaning an overall saving.
The recommendations were made by an appointments committee, made up of council leader Steve Parnaby, deputy leader Coun Jonathan Owen, Coun Julie Abraham and Coun Keith Moore.
Coun Robson will be asking for a recorded vote at a full council meeting on February 22, which will consider the appointments.
Coun Robson said: “I am opposed to a new post being created where no role exists and even if no money is attached to it I can’t see the point and will oppose it.
“We have to save £60m in the next three years. I know this is small beer but every little counts – it’s the principle of it in times of austerity.
“How can the four (committee members) drum up a new post like that without any reference to the rest of the council?
“I am putting a motion forward and will be asking for a recorded vote.”
Council directors currently take it in turns to represent the chief executive when Mr Pearson is away.