COUNCILLORS voting against giving themselves a pay rise was nothing more than “theatre” on the eve of the Queanbeyan Palerang Regional Council’s record rate rise, says independent councillor Mareeta Grundy.

She says that last year a majority of QPRC councillors voted to lift their allowances to the maximum allowable level, which amounted to a 22 per cent increase for councillors and a 33 per cent lift for mayor Kenrick Winchester. 

A new superannuation entitlement also received majority support from the council, with Cr Grundy voting against both of the benefits. 

“In my opinion, last year’s excessive allowance increases, the introduction of superannuation benefits and the most recent meeting’s proposal to further raise allowances – by the highest level possible – were not justified. That’s why I didn’t vote for them then or now,” she says. 

Ms Grundy says while she’s pleased to see councillors acknowledging council’s financial challenges, the current decision should be seen for what it is.

“Where was this enlightened attitude to fiscal responsibility over the last 12 months?

“At every turn, everything I’ve tried to do to rein in discretionary spending and look at ways we might make savings and shield ratepayers has been dismissed by the majority Labor-Greens voting group.

“Now, in light of the upcoming 64 per cent Special Rate Variation and increasing water and sewer levies, these same councillors are patting themselves on the back for what community members recognise as seeking to avoid further backlash. It’s theatrics.”

Ms Grundy says anyone who puts themselves forward for council should be aware that it’s not a full-time position and councillors don’t receive a salary.

“We receive an allowance, a stipend, that’s to be expended on fulfilling what remains a part-time role – including that of the mayor,” she says.

“If you’re in this for the money, you’re in it for the wrong reasons. It’s about serving the community, not the chance to secure a full-time job or line your pockets.”