Poll: Should City Council Members Use Public Money to Attend Social Events?

There’s always some kind of fundraising event going on in Laguna Beach. But should city council members be given public money to attend those events?

On Tuesday, the council unanimously voted to set aside $450 a year per council member, which would cover their cost of attending certain events hosted by various Laguna Beach organizations and non-profits. If all five members used the funds, it would cost the city $2,250 a year.

Events specifically cited were the Chamber of Commerce Spirit Awards, the Chamber Leadership Luncheon, the Woman’s Club Event for the Mayor, the Seniors’ Legacy Ball, the Chamber’s State of the City lunch, the Seniors’ Christmas Luncheon and the Laguna Canyon Conservancy Dinner.

“In other communities, there is a substantial amount to attend these events,” said Councilmember Toni iseman. “There is an expectation in the community that you be there. If you’re not there, they have to say ‘Where were you?’ And sometimes we have two or three events a day … If we are a liaison to a group, the city should pay our way.”

Several people during the meeting endorsed the $450 payout. One woman did not.

“This is not an appropriate use of taxpayer money,” she said. “Taxes are collected to pay for goods and services and not to pay for council members to go to social events.”

Council members are paid $600 a month. Council member Kelly Boyd argued that the out-of-pocket costs to attend events adds up, especially if a member brings their spouse.

Elizabeth Pearson said that money to attend events does come out of fellow member’s pockets. “It’s easily $600 a month, if not more.”

What do you think? Should public money be used by city council members to attend events? Take our poll below ...