They didn’t think we were looking
Although we have been told the recent budget cuts have forced the Phoenix Police Department to delay the hiring of at least 250 police officers, the fiscal strife didn’t reach the level of Chief of Police…er…Public Safety Manager Jack Harris. He was able to pocket a nice little chunk of change in the form of a $5,000 bonus this past October.
You remember Harris? He’s the chief who retired January 19, 2007 only to be rehired a month to the day later with the brand-spanking new title of Phoenix Public Safety Manager. As the Manager, he continues to wear his four star police department uniform and prefers to be addressed as Chief in discussions regarding police business or with the public present.
At the time this bonus was given, the city was already in the process of asking for across the board cuts and axing services due to the faltering economy.
A stellar KPHO Channel 5 report includes a three page list of Performance Achievement Cash-based Awards given to nearly 140 city executives and managers – over and above their salaries.
Check out the excellent investigative report here. The video can be viewed here.
Stammering Phoenix City Manager Frank Fairbanks calls the $354,800 in cash awards “longevity” pay although some of the recipients were short-timers.
The City of Phoenix under the lack-of-leadership of Mayor Phil Gordon is a classic example of liberalism at its worst. By providing a sanctuary city haven for illegals and spending in this manner during these difficult times, they show their disregard for the taxpayers who foot the bill for this unjustified spending.
Kudos to Channel 5 for this report.
Very well done report. Using the word “stammering” to describe the explantion given by City Manager Frank Fairbanks was perfect. I wonder what Mr. Fairbanks earns. It should be public information, since he works for us.
The city is run by arrogant dunces, from Gordon on down, or up….
Harris is inept & corrupt – the truth will come out regarding the Goudeau case & the illegal raids on innocent citizens & for this Harris receives a bonus. Morale is at an all time low in the police dept. But hey if you’re not a FOJ (Friend of Jacks) then WATCH OUT!
I forgot to mention – the lawsuits are going to cost the City millions! I guess this is how the City pays out bonuses – give them to those who are inept.
Harris draws a $90,000 pension while collecting an annual salary of at least $120,000 for his job as Public Safety Manager. Not a bad deal in these bad times.
You might want to correct this minor typo: “As the Manger, he continues…” Should be manager, and not capitalized. Just trying to be helpful.
We appreciate your keen eye, CrackleGator. Thanks for the typo alert.
We repaired “manager” but left it capitalized since we used it as part of the title mentioned completely in the preceding sentence. We could be wrong, but it seemed right……