County Perks Not a Secret

The public’s right to know is pivotal in its right to make informed choices (as in the case of Ventura County supervisors and officials). The amount of benefits paid to public officials and executives is an appropriate subject for full disclosure. Conversely, overstatement of this already publicly disclosed information distorts the open and honest intent of the officials who voted for such compensation.

Objectivity also requires a finding of reasonable payment for the responsibility of managing a county of this size and the amount of time these people give to public service. This county and its cities are big businesses. They should be paid fairly. It is a prime reason why this county is free from corruption and undue influence. Our officials need to be and are independent.

These days it is almost sport to search for excitable controversies. Public official compensation is a tantalizing target and ripe for hyperbole. Those seeking an issue should look elsewhere, for these public actions were not done in secret nor is there any hint of conspiracy or wrongdoing.

I would hope that the supervisors not overly react nor allow their genuine concern for county employees and constituents suffer them with unfounded guilty feelings.

CHARLES W. COHEN

Thousand Oaks