We all wish we could determine our own pay raises. The problem's exacerbated because we haven't looked at it in so long because it is a touchy subject. Springdale illustrates a pre dicament faced by many elected officials around the state. Fearing voter backlash, council members and mayors often avoid raising salaries so long that they lag behind those of similar communities nearby. When councils do tackle the issue, they follow ethics guidelines to the letter or risk tough questions from constituents.
Some communities try to avoid awkwardness by taking pay out of the hands of elected officials.
In Sharonville and Cincinnati, elected officials automatically get raises when Hamilton County commissioners do. In Hamilton, council members' salaries increase only if residents vote to change the city's charter. That system has different problems. Most people seeking elected office say money isn't their motive. In Indian Hill, the mayor and council members make nothing.