The highest paid pensioner in California held numerous offices in the city of Vernon.
Why is anyone surprised? Vernon is a city of many business interests, yet few residents, with little oversight in a state which has ignored the growing financial problems associated with granting generous benefits and retirement packages to its public employees, both at the local and the state level.
Instead of reporting with shock and surprise that another highly-salaried and well-paid public official has played the system, media leaders and state representatives need to promote the same pension and collective bargaining reforms instituted by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and his Republican colleagues.
Following two successful elections, including an attempted recall, public workers have abandoned their unions, and the unions have lost all political clout. Cities and school districts are saving money, and Wisconsin has no outstanding pension obligations to worry about.
Why can’t California do the same?