SIMI VALLEY : Official Refuses City Health Benefits

Barbara Williamson, who was recently elected to the Simi Valley City Council, said Friday that she will pass up the medical and dental benefits the city provides to council members.

In recent weeks, some government watchdogs have criticized the perks given to elected city and county officials. But Williamson insisted there was no political message behind her decision not to accept Simi Valley’s health benefits.

“I don’t need it,” she said. “It’s a duplication for me.”

Williamson said she receives adequate coverage through Simi Valley Bank, where she works as a vice president.

Simi Valley officials recently disclosed that in addition to their $7,920 annual pay, council members receive other benefits costing $4,800 to $6,100 per council member annually, depending on the health plan selected and the number of family members covered.

Williamson said she does plan to use some of the city’s non-health-related benefits, including a $250-per-month expense account for attending nonprofit events and other functions as a representative of the city.

She will also seek reimbursement for mileage and car-phone calls related to city business.

In addition to the other benefits, the city places about $500 a year into a retirement fund for each council member. Williamson said Simi Valley officials told her this benefit is required by law and cannot be turned down.