Supporters say:

• Framers of the Home Rule Charter separated the legislative and executive functions of the County Commissioners to "provide checks and balances" in Allegheny County government.  Funding for personal staff and administrative support would increase the County Council's effectiveness as an independent branch of government in this role.

• County Council members are the only elected Allegheny County officials who are prohibited from having fringe benefits and personal staff.  The lack of benefits and staff support discourages people from running for County Council.  

• The change would bring department budget and staffing limits more in line with other elected officials in Allegheny County and allow more access to outside consultants and administrative support.

• A position as County Council member would remain part time and receive only the mandated stipend.
  

Opponents say:

• The framers of the Home Rule Charter intended to create a semi-professional, part-time Council with limited costs to the County.   They envisioned a council of ordinary citizens who held different full time jobs and represented different regions of the County.

• The cost of providing benefits and funding for additional staff support would strain the County budget and burden taxpayers.   

• Although the proposal doesn't approve funding for new services at this time, it opens the door for ongoing funding increases.

• The decision should not be made without hearing recommendations from the government review commission. This commission is currently meeting and is scheduled to report later in the year.