A letter from Lorrie

Take a Stand Against Unjust Salary Increases

On June 17, 2024, the City Council approved a 79% salary increase for the Mayor and a 48% increase for themselves, despite constituents' opposition. At the June 3 meeting, several councilors acknowledged hearing from residents against these raises.  Still, they chose self-service over public service.

What can we do? Fortunately, we have a recourse. Section 42 of the City Charter and Massachusetts General Laws Part I Title VII Chapter 43 Section 42 allow us to seek a repeal of these ordinances.

A group of concerned taxpayers, A Just Quincy, is collecting signatures for two referendum petitions to repeal Ordinance 2024-055, which raises the Mayor’s salary to $285,000, and Ordinance 2024-056, which raises the City Council's salary to $44,500, effective January 1, 2025.

To submit these petitions, A Just Quincy needs signatures from at least 12% of registered voters within 20 days of the ordinances' final passage. That’s over 8,000 signatures by July 10, 2024. If successful, the Clerk will forward the petitions to the City Council, suspending the ordinances and prompting immediate reconsideration. If not rescinded within 20 days, the petitions will go to a city-wide vote.

We must act now to ensure our voices are heard. Sign one or both referendum petitions to repeal these raises, or join A Just Quincy in gathering signatures. Visit ajustquincy.com or email info@ajustquincy.com to help restore integrity to our local government. Let's make a difference together.

Lorrie Thomas
Quincy