The Twentynine Palms City Council held a special meeting last night, and adjourned early enough that council members could attend the high school graduation. The main items of business on the agenda were giving the city manager a raise, and approving the Project Phoenix budget and the special funds budget. Managing editor Tami Roleff was at the meeting, and files this report…
Frank Luckino was hired to be the city manager four years ago, and every year he’s gotten a raise, and this year is no exception. With little comment, the Twentynine Palms City Council approved a 3.8 percent annual increase. His base salary will increase by $4,556 per year, (and he will give up the $4,556 in compensation he received for acting as the finance director); his cost-of-living adjustment goes up by 2.1 percent, or $3,923; and he’ll be eligible for mileage reimbursements, up to $2,500 per year. His new salary of $190,737 will go into effect July 1.
The council also approved the $16 million budget for Project Phoenix, of which $2 million will be spent this year. It’s expected the project will be completed at the end of 2021.
And finally, the council approved the special funds budget without comment. The special funds budget will be used for streets, parks, safety, and other projects.
