THOUSAND OAKS : Pay for City Manager, Attorney Due Debate

Evaluating the city attorney and city manager in public session, Thousand Oaks council members Tuesday will consider whether to dole out merit raises to the two officials.

Based on their performances, which he rated highly, Councilman Frank Schillo said he would recommend raises of 3% or 4% for them. But, like his colleagues, he said he could not fix a fair number until after the public debate Tuesday night.

City Manager Grant Brimhall, who earns $121,860 a year, is one of the county’s best-paid officials. But he has not received a raise--not even a cost-of-living boost--since 1991. Three years ago, he turned down a proposed pay hike because of his concern about the city’s tight budget.

“I think (Brimhall) has done an excellent job,” Councilwoman Judy Lazar said, arguing in favor of a raise. “We’ve had to deal with some tough financial situations and we have come out in relatively good shape.”

City Atty. Mark Sellers received a 5% pay increase two years ago, lifting his annual base salary to $97,920. He still earns less than some city staff with long tenure, including Planning Director Phil Gatch and Assistant City Manager MaryJane Lazz.

“When we’re having public hearings and we need advice right away, (Sellers) has steadfastly been able to do that,” Schillo said. “He has done a very good job. I believe he deserves a raise.”

The city manager and city attorney are the only officials who report directly to the City Council. Most employees and department heads report to Brimhall, who conducts regular performance reviews and authorizes merit raises.