CONSULTANTS plus new cars.
These would be promised by Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella to the 18 members of the City Council under the still-to-be proposed 2020 annual budget.
Vice Mayor Michael Rama, Council presiding officer, would get three consultants to help him in the performance of his functions. His office too would get a new vehicle, Labella added.
Labella did not say how many consultants per councilor, what kind of expertise these consultants must have and how much is their compensation.
As to the vehicles, Labella said he would prefer they get the four-wheel drive or 4x4 type of pick-up vehicles that they can use to go to mountain barangays but he would let each councilor choose.
Those enjoying a transportation allowance of P8,500 per month, however, will not qualify for a new vehicle because this might violate the law.
Labella said he intends to give equal favor to all Council members, regardless of party affiliation. He vowed not to do what his predecessor, Tomas Osmeña, did when he, as vice mayor then, did not get an assigned vehicle because he belonged to the opposite party.
“I will provide them with consultants and vehicles, unlike before when I didn’t even get a vehicle,” Labella said.
Labella has yet to submit his proposed budget for next year to the City Council for its approval.
A budget is the detailed plan of how a local government plans to spend funds in line with its objectives, needs and priorities. (PAC)