Whittlesea acting chief Joe Carbone takes 20 per cent pay cut during coronavirus pandemic
Whittlesea Council’s acting chief executive has taken a pay cut as the impacts of coronavirus hit local government. But a Leader survey of all Melbourne councils has found he is the only one.
North
Don't miss out on the headlines from North. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Whittlesea acting boss Joe Carbone is the only Melbourne council chief executive to take a pay cut in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
It comes after a Leader survey of 32 Melbourne councils found Mr Carbone had taken a 20 per cent cut to his salary since mid-March.
While the contract of an acting chief executive was confidential, Leader understands Mr Carbone’s salary fell into line with previous annual salaries of $390,000-$399,000.
The former Manningham boss said the rapidly-changing pandemic had caused many people and businesses to make important decisions to help the greater good.
“Our local businesses are suffering and our community has had to adapt very quickly to a new way of life, whether it be adverse effects on their financial situation or missing loved ones and friends because of social distancing,” Mr Carbone said.
“When the potential effects of this pandemic really started to come into our vision, I took a view that if we can all do a little bit in these uncertain times, no matter how big or small, it can make a difference.
“Taking a pay cut during the pandemic was one way that I could demonstrate to my staff that I will do whatever I can to help keep people in jobs and to our community that I am committed to putting back into this city.”
Whittlesea Council’s COVID-19 financial hardship policy has allowed individuals, businesses and organisations struggling financially to enter into a payment plan for rates.
While in more serious cases of hardship, ratepayers could apply for a deferral until June 30 next year without penalty.
MORE NEWS
COUNCIL TIGHT-LIPPED ON OVERLAND SETTLEMENT
WHITTLESEA REVEALS RATES RELIEF PLAN
MILL PARK AQUATIC UPGRADE ON TRACK
Director of corporate services Amy Montalti said the council’s projected loss in revenue as a result of the pandemic would not be known for “some time”.
“We have delivered a balanced draft budget for 2020-21, absorbing some known costs and committing $2 million to a community recovery fund,” she said.
“We are also committed to delivering $83.86 million in vital infrastructure through our capital works program and more than 100 services to our community.”
While no capital works have been postponed or cancelled, Ms Montalti said the council may need to adjust delivery timelines of some key projects.
“There are still many unknowns in regards to longer-term impacts of this pandemic, however we are keeping our community informed as quickly as possible,” she said.