Batesburg-Leesville leaders OK giving up pay for employees’ raise

Batesburg-Leesville leaders took the first step Monday toward giving up their salaries so town workers can get a pay raise.

Town Council gave initial approval to a swap that would take effect July 1.

The plan means the eight council members would abolish their annual salaries of $4,000 each as well as the $6,000 for Mayor Rita Crapps.

The savings will be used for pay raises of at least 1 percent for 53 employees.

Council members approved the step 6-2 instead of raising property taxes to help provide raises.

But council members and the mayor will retain a $1,500 allowance apiece for travel and training.

Tim Flach

This story was originally published June 12, 2017 at 9:06 PM with the headline "Batesburg-Leesville leaders OK giving up pay for employees’ raise."