Reducing senior leadership spending
Addressing the Chief Administrative Officer & Chief Operating Officer budget
During the 2024 Mid-Cycle adjustments, Councillor Sharp, along with Councillor McLean, brought forward an amendment regarding the $6.5 million annual budget allocated to the City’s Chief Executive function. The motion sought to address concerns about duplication at the top of the City’s organizational structure, where both the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) perform overlapping roles.
This motion proposed reducing the budget for the Chief Executive function by $2.5 million, emphasizing the importance of efficiency and accountability in how taxpayer dollars are used. The intent was not to dictate operational decisions but to signal the need for streamlined leadership and better alignment with Council’s priorities.
Although the motion did not pass, Councillor Sharp remains committed to advocating for responsible spending and meaningful efficiencies at every level of City operations.
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Councillor Sharp's debate for the Chief Administrative Officer & Chief Operating Officer budget
Discretionary spending for executive leadership
Additionally, Councillor Sharp, in collaboration with Councillor McLean, introduced a motion during budget deliberations calling for a detailed report on discretionary expenses for City directors and higher-ranking officials. The purpose of the motion was to assess spending practices and set a target to reduce these costs by 50% in the 2025 budget.
The motion requested a comprehensive report of discretionary spending from the past two years, to be delivered before February 2025. The report would provide a clear overview of expenses to guide discussions about potential reductions at budget finalization.
This initiative was rooted in ensuring that City leadership demonstrates responsible spending practices, particularly during a time when many Calgarians face economic challenges.
Unfortunately, the motion was defeated in a 9-6 vote. Those voting against included Mayor Gondek and Councillors Carra, Penner, Mian, Pootmans, Dhaliwal, Demong, Walcott, and Spencer. In support of the motion were Councillors Chabot, Wyness, Chu, Sharp, McLean, and Wong.