Archive: Around Town

The Lansing Town Board implemented a longevity bonus policy for town employees at their regular Wednesday meeting this week. The idea was raised by Councilman Bud Shattuck, who also sits on the personnel committee. "We have a log-term, dedicated staff here, and I think it is good to reward that."

The policy will mean that after 10 years of service an employee will get a special bonus of $200 on the anniversary of their hire date. After 15 years that will go up to $350 and after 20 years $500. This year the policy will cost a total of $4,800, and will go up to $5,400 next year. Town Supervisor Steve Farkas said that while it isn't a lot of money, it is a way of honoring employee loyalty to the town.

Greg Lawrence, who made an unsuccessful bid for a Town Board seat in the last election, suggested a different formula, saying that there could be a perception that this is another benefit at a time when benefits are sky high and taxpayers are questioning the extent to which they should be provided by the town. He said that he is all for rewarding loyal service, but suggested that a higher one-time award at the 5, 10 and 15 year marks would be better perceived as rewards for service, rather than a yearly benefit.

Shattuck replied that the personnel committee had looked at different formulas including that one, and that the difference in cost to the Town is negligible. He noted, "The Highway Department accounts for 60% of Lansing Town's employees. Nobody does a better job." He noted that last year the town had to reduce some health and long term benefits because of the prohibitive cost, and these things contributed to his preference for the annual award plan. He said, "I think this is the best way to reward our employees."

Councilwoman Connie Wilcox said, "It's a good thing, because we do have the (pay and benefits) structure that we have. We don't give merit raises. This is one way to reward them." Shattuck also noted that Lansing salaries are lower than in some other towns.

The board also voted to reimburse employees for up to $100 of fitness membership costs, based on a study that showed that employees are more productive when they are in shape. Shattuck said there is a 67% interest in this program among town employees. The money can be applied to health clubs, YMCA or Lansing Rec Department programs.

----
v2i3