New Britain herald., 1924-01-29
COMMUNICATED
Jmsticc for City EmpIoyes.

| Edltor, New Britain Herald:
 The chief topic of conversation at this time, in all circles of our city, seems to be the salaries of our em- ployes. It seems to me that all resi- dents of New Britain should have a right, and be given an opportunity. to express their views publicly on such an important question. Our salary revision, board is in the habit of giv- l ing a hearing to the heads of the different departments. I think that 1 they should also give a hearing to the people who pay the bills.
 Let usslook at this from business standpoint. We shall use as an il- lustration the big corporation of the Stanley Works. Let us assume that they, from time to time, have had different superintendents and that these superintendents knew that some of the foremen had kept on the pay roll many employees whom they could dispense with, thereby decreas- ing the dividends to the stockholders. This system continues for several years. Finally they succeed in dis posing of these, replacing them with
 
 the stockholders and, by dispensing with a mass of surplus employees, saves for them many thousands of dollars. Do you think that it would have been good policy for the stockholders to increase the salaries of those heads of departments who kept on the payroll employees whom they didn't need? And don't you think that the new superintendent,' who saved the concern this vast amount of money is entitled to sub- stantial increase in salary? My con tention is this: That our city de- partments should be managed econ- omically, have all the help necessary, but no more. And if it is found that the head of any or all depart ments are retaining unnecessary em- ployes, drastic action should be taken. If these employees are elected officials their salaries should be re- duced, and if appointed officials their resignation should be demanded. l was disgusted with the distinction made in our common council between male and female employees. I insist that the city of New Britain, or any other employer, should pay for actual services rendered regardless of sex, race, creed, color or fraternal affilia- tion How can woman con- scientiously vote for a party whose leaders discriminate against their sex.
 Judging from the talk among the people around the Streets and in the factories we are now enjoying the best municipal government that New Britain has ever had. Mayor Pao- nessa is conceded by all to be work ing in the interests of all the'people, and not being led or dictated to by a select few, machine or corporation. Chief Hart of the police department is the only person in New Britain who has graduated from the ranks to the highest position in his department. ! It was stated in the common council | that he was absolutely fearless and l would also like to add that the people believe him to be strictly honest, which is far more important in such q position. One thing I | can't understand is why members of | the fire department are not entitled | to as much salary as those of the po- |
  lice department And why is not the chairman of the police board as inn portant as that of the fire board and, | thereby, receive the same salary
 Regarding the punching Of the | clock by the city employees I would like to saw that the gentleman who advocated ,tiAs at tho council meeting should have also insisted that em- ployes who work overtime during the rush season should be reimbursed ac- eordingly. There are many em- ployes of tlfe city who give part Of their time for snbstantial salaries. These men arc their own judge as to how much Of their time they shall i give to the city.
 In coneusion, Mir. Editor, l wish to say that this article is written in the spirit of fair play and justice. II have hardly n speaking acquaintance with any of the city employees but am Tn favor Of giving credit where credit s due.
 EFFICIENCY.