Economic Development Coordinator's Bonus Structure a Surprise to Some, but Letter Lays Out Incentive Plan

During last week's Planning and Zoning Commission public hearing regarding some proposed changes to the local zoning regulations, a contractual incentive program for Economic Development Coordinator Shaun Gately was brought up.

It turned a few heads.

A few prominent heads.

"We need to look that up," said Marie Herbst, the senior Democrat on the Town Council. "I don't remember that."

Other council members could not recollect the clause coming up when the appointment of Gately by former Mayor Jason McCoy was endorsed in May.

But whether the public and the council saw the terms they are there - in black and white - in Gately's letter of hire dated May 18.

Gately's salary is $79,918 - at the top of a scale that begins at $63,105 - and he is exempt from a performance bonus provision per the collective bargaining agreement with the Professional Employees Union.

Gately is instead eligible to receive a "performance bonus of up to 3 percent of the revenue directly attributable" to his efforts on an annual basis.

A side letter describes that revenue as Grand List increases from new real estate assessments and building permit revenue generated through economic development activity.

"I have not seen the contract but at first blush I don't mind that kind of incentive. I believe the Town Council should have been informed so we understand the budgetary consequences," Deputy Mayor Brian Motola said.  "Many questions come to mind. That being said, I appreciate Mr. Gately's efforts. If he brings jobs and revenue to the town we are all better off for it."

A statement from Mayor George Apel's office was steadfast in saying that the percentage is in lieu of what other employees are eligible for.

Said Gately, "It is my understanding that all town employees have similar incentives, albeit not identical, and this has been in place for several years. I cannot comment on why some members of the council were surprised."

Gately has arguably been earning his money. Apel announced at the last council meeting that 13 new and relocating businesses are scheduling ribbon cutting ceremonies in town over the next month or so. Included on the list is Cardio Express, finally  moving up Talcottville Road to a new location after years of trying. The town is giving the owner a break on a portion of any additional assessments.

In August, one of the town's most notorious vacancies - the former Bennigan's property on Hartford Turnpike - has a buyer and appears to be headed for conversion into a doctor's office.

"As it pertains to me, I am very accustomed to having performance based income as part of my compensation package, and will continue to work hard on the Towns behalf," Gately said.