SAFFORD — Safford city employees received an early visit from Santa courtesy of the Safford City Council.
On Monday, the council voted 4-1 to double the employees’ holiday bonus proposed by the city manager.
“I want our employees to know that we appreciate them and value them,” said Councilman Michael Andazola. “I’d like to put a motion forth on the floor that we give our employees, instead of $500, $1,000.”
The $1,000 will be after taxes and awarded to all full-time employees and volunteer firefighters. Part-time employees will receive a $500 after tax bonus.
City Manager John Cassella said about 60 percent will come from reserves in the general fund and about 40 percent will come from reserves in the enterprise funds, which is made up of revenue from utilities.
He added that total cost of doubling the bonuses is estimated at about $350,000.
In addition to Andazola, Councilmen Brad Hemphill and Gene Seale, and Vice Mayor Richard Ortega voted in favor of the increased bonuses. Voting against was Councilman Arnold Lopez.
