Pueblo West considers computer specialist

James Amos

Nov. 7, 2009 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- The Pueblo West Metropolitan District may hire a computer systems specialist in 2010.

Board members discussed the decision Tuesday at their public workshop on the 2010 budget. Board member Jerry Martin said the job was placed in the proposed 2010 budget with a salary of $40,000.

But others at the Tuesday meeting that that wasn't enough.

Resident Phil Weber, who has an extensive computer background, said the district will have to pay more for someone who knows what they are doing. "For $40,000, you're going to get a jerk," he said. "Think $70,000."

Chad Heberly, president of the Pueblo West Chamber of Commerce, agreed that a competent computer-systems director will cost more.

He also said the chamber has a number of people with computer backgrounds who may be able to help the district reduce expenses.

But Weber, a retiree, said he would do it for nothing.

He said that if board members can work 40 hours a week or more on the district's behalf, as Martin and others did on the budget, he can help out as well.

In other business, the board:

Heard from board member Mike French that the 2010 budget proposal will cut four jobs and add five, but still save about $44,000 a year in salaries.

The board is scheduled to discuss the budget again Tuesday evening.

Appointed board members Chuck Green and Corynne Hyatt to the Desert Hawk Golf Course Enterprise board, replacing Brian Mueller and former board member Jeff Sloan.

Voted to keep the Anthem health insurance company for the coming year.

jamos@chieftain.com

Newstex ID: KRTB-0154-39534514