Are Fresno’s City Attorneys Overpaid? Lawsuit Alleges They Are
A lawsuit alleges Fresno city attorneys received substantial raises, potentially misusing taxpayer money, prompting concerns about fairness and fiscal responsibility.Summary
A former Fresno city attorney, Mary Doidge, is alleging that recent raises granted to her colleagues are “exorbitant” and a misuse of taxpayer funds. Doidge, who left the office in 2023, claims that City Attorney Andrew Janz has given substantial raises – ranging from 4% to 29% – and promotions to attorneys, including former prosecutors from the District Attorney’s office, without sufficient justification or regard for experience. Janz defends the raises as “equity adjustments” needed to remain competitive, especially when support staff salaries are comparable to those of attorneys.
The city council approved a 12% raise for Janz himself, and the total increased compensation for 18 attorneys amounts to at least $330,000. Concerns have been raised about the lack of oversight, with City Council President Mike Karbassi stating they trust Janz’s managerial decisions. Doidge’s concerns were amplified by the departure of the City Clerk, Todd Stermer, who reportedly sought a raise and was replaced by a friend of Janz with a significantly higher salary despite lacking clerk experience.
Doidge has filed a discrimination and retaliation lawsuit against the city, alleging mistreatment based on a mental health disability. The city denies these claims and maintains that Doidge voluntarily resigned. The lawsuit and the controversy surrounding the attorney raises have brought scrutiny to the management practices within the City Attorney’s Office and the allocation of public funds.
(Source：Gv Wire)