During a recent government meeting, council members engaged in a heated discussion regarding the veto of the director of administration's salary by the county executive. The council expressed confusion over the implications of the veto, particularly concerning the approval of the director's pay, which remains unaddressed.
One council member highlighted that the executive's veto could be overridden by the council, allowing them to approve the salary of $90,000 that had previously been discussed. However, there was a consensus that the council's failure to act promptly on this matter could be interpreted as a waiver of their authority, complicating the situation further.
The conversation revealed underlying tensions regarding the balance of power between the council and the county executive. Several members voiced concerns that the executive's actions could undermine the council's authority to set salaries, emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal protocols in such decisions.
Additionally, the council acknowledged the need for resolution on the 2023 budget, with some members expressing frustration over the delays and lack of clarity from the administration. The discussion concluded with a recognition of the need for decisive action, whether through an override of the veto or by establishing a new salary framework for the director, to restore order and uphold the council's legislative authority.