Alberni – Clayoquot Regional District Directors gave themselves a 10% raise yesterday.
The increase was put in place to offset the effect of a federal policy change, that repeals the tax-free status of a portion of political remunerations.
Board Chair John Jack said an independent report showed local directors were underpaid compared to similar regional districts, and especially when people consider the important work they do.
Remuneration for directors will increase from $6,500 a year to $7,150, and electoral area representatives receive an additional $2600 a year, which will increase to $2,860 for a total annual salary of $10,010.
Jack says the increase comes into effect in the next budget year, when a new board is in place.
The raise represents a $17,000 increase to the overall budget.
Board Chair John Jack hopes the increase will also attract more candidates for the October election.