Billings, Bailey swap barbs

Billings said the city has suffered through difficult economic times since 2001 but has tried to provide what salaries and benefits it could for employees through an annual review of salaries. He also projected the 2005-06 fiscal year, because of rising sales tax revenues, could be the best since he's been with the city and that employees deserve consideration if that happens.

Bailey said Provo had been through boom times early in Billings' tenure but agreed that times have been tougher lately. He said he would call for an independent, professional wage survey so employees could trust it.

"We know that there's a morale problem," Bailey said. "Are people doing the best job they can? Yes. Are employees helpful to public? Yes. Are they grumbling? Yes."

Billings said morale was being damaged chiefly by the scrutiny of several departments due to the rugged campaign.

"I don't know that I agree that morale is at an all time low," Billings said. "I think morale is very good, if we could get the election over."

The two men and the candidates for Provo City Council will appear again Thursday night at 7 for a "Meet the Candidates Night" sponsored by the Provo/Orem Chamber of Commerce in the City Council chambers. That event is also scheduled to be televised on Provo cable Channel 17.

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