TVA raises CEO's compensation, Duncan blasts increase Save Email Print

Posted: 12:34 PM Oct 31, 2008 Last Updated: 4:05 PM Oct 31, 2008 176 comments

A | A | A NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- The Tennessee Valley Authority board has approved increasing the utility chief executive's compensation by nearly a half million dollars, and Congressman Jimmy Duncan, Jr., has sent a letter to the TVA board chairman questioning the move. The increase comes a month after the largest power rate increase in three decades took effect. "Announcing this raise on the same day the Nation officially enters a recession, when many people are struggling to make ends meet, is just very unfortunate." In his letter to TVA Board Chairman William Sansom, Duncan says, "It becomes even worse when it follows a large rate increase that even Mr. Kilgore says may be able to be rescinded in a few months due to the decrease in fuel costs." Meeting in Nashville, board members approved improving President and CEO Tom Kilgore's compensation from about $2.7 million to $3.27 million, effective with the next fiscal year. Kilgore's base salary of $600,000 has remained the same since he became CEO in 2006. He said after the meeting he would not decline the board's decision to raise it to $850,000. On Oct. 1, TVA put an effective 20 percent electricity rate increase into effect, raising the average residential monthly power bill by between $15.80 and $19.80. Congressman Zach Wamp says, “Many families in East Tennessee have been struggling to pay their bills during these tough economic times." "It defies common sense that following TVA’s biggest rate increase in three decades, the TVA Board of Directors would approve such a significant bonus package for the TVA chairman." Wamp says, "This isn’t fair to the many hard working TVA customers who will have to tighten their belts even further to pay ever-higher electric bills.” Leave your thoughts in the comments section below. Here's what Rep. Duncan's letter said: October 31, 2008 Mr. William Sansom Chairman of the Board The Tennessee Valley Authority 400 W. Summit Hill Dr. Knoxville, Tennessee 37902 Dear Chairman Sansom: Each year an overwhelming majority of the people in this region become extremely upset about the millions of dollars in bonuses TVA gives to its top-level employees. Now I am hearing an even stronger reaction to the salary and bonus package, totaling $3,270,000, given to Mr. Kilgore. I have very great respect for you, Mr. Kilgore, and each member of the Board whom I know. However, this pay raise is excessive and very unnecessary. Further, the timing could not be worse. Announcing this raise on the same day the Nation officially enters a recession, when many people are struggling to make ends meet, is just very unfortunate. It becomes even worse when it follows a large rate increase that even Mr. Kilgore says may be able to be rescinded in a few months due to the decrease in fuel costs. According to the Knoxville News-Sentinel, Mr. Kilgore says he did not request or seek a pay raise, but he was "overruled" by the Board. As much as I admire and respect Mr. Kilgore, no one is indispensable or irreplaceable. I am convinced that many really outstanding people could be hired for half of this $3.27 million pay package. I know the argument that other top executives in the utility industry are making more, and sometimes much more. However, just because someone else is making a ridiculous or unjustified salary does not mean that a public service agency like TVA should follow suit. East Tennessee is one of the most popular places to live in this entire Country. TVA does not need to pay excessive salaries or bonuses to attract well-qualified people to fill its top-level positions. I assume that the Board will not rescind this latest pay raise and will continue giving out huge bonuses, despite tremendous public opposition. But I hope, at the very least, you will consider delaying this pay raise and any bonuses until this Nation comes out of recession or until TVA rescinds its recent rate increase. With kindest regards, I am Yours truly, JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR. Member of Congress Amy H. Westmoreland Communications Director/Legislative Assistant Congressman John J. Duncan, Jr. (TN-2) 2207 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 phone: 202-225-5435 fax: 202-225-6440 (The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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Post Your Comments First Name: Location: Enter Comments: characters left Email (optional): By posting this comment I have read and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy: You must agree to the Terms of Service to continue. Read Comments Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station. Posted by: Kennetha Location: Morristown on Feb 10, 2009 at 12:12 PM I am a single parent working for the handicapped making $8.00 hr and have not recieved a raise in 3yrs. I also recieved a $300.00 pay cut. I work very hard,not sitting behind a desk making decisions, for my money everyday. When someone gets a raise like this one and then raises my electric bill(which i can barely afford and almost having my power shut off) I hope they can sleep in warmth at night while my little girl freezes. Posted by: JJ Location: Huntsville on Dec 30, 2008 at 01:15 PM When are they finally going to put a cap on these CEO's ludicrous salaries? Instead of giving ridiculous RAISES, these companies need to restructure. There a MANY who would be able to do that job for HALF of what Kilgore makes, which is still a LOT of money. They say their "costs have gone up". Well, duh! With ridiculous pay raises like that, it's very easy to figure out why. The executives pockets are getting fatter while emptying ours much too quickly. I do believe that it is definitely TIME FOR CHANGE. Posted by: J.W.McLarty Location: Oxford, Mississippi on Dec 23, 2008 at 08:46 AM ’d like to protest most strongly this decision to increase the CEO’s pay. Is the TVA Board really this out of touch with reality? Not only have they increased rates for power, but have increased the “fuel surchage”, while fuel has gone down to a 5 year low. What is the fuel surcharge? My residence has not gotten any farther away from the power lines than they were when the house was built? Why do they keep going up? Please do not feign your “costs have gone up” while you are increasing the pay of your executives. It is an outrage and I will continue to write my senators, representatives, and media outlets until we have some answers. J.W.Mclarty Oxford, Mississippi Posted by: tom Location: knoxville on Dec 10, 2008 at 09:40 PM First of all,hats off to MR. DUNCAN thank you sir for stepping up for the littleman. We need a voice that will be heard. We all live in this great country and are given the god given right to stand up for what we dont believe or when we feel we have been pushed to far i say its time to stand up..I think we need to start a mass petition ill be glad to start one in knoxville im enclosing my email if you wld like to join in and you realy want your voice heard lets get kilgores raise recinded and our rates to where we can afford them.tommiller0796@hotmail.com Posted by: jim bennett Location: Fannin Co GA on Nov 19, 2008 at 11:36 AM What a godsend TVA was to our area. How dissapointing it has become.We have seen 3 rate increases in the past year with no real increase in out of pocket increase in fuel cost since TVA contract for their fuel far into the future. TVA has joined Wallstreet in obsene salaries. For starters how can we know what is involved in the incentive package. Other over paid employees include Bill McCollum up to $2.2 million, Kim Green up to $1.5 million and Maureen Dunn up to $851,867. Posted by: Daniel Location: Florence on Nov 14, 2008 at 01:24 PM How can TVA justify giving a pay raise of over a half milion dollars to a man who is already making $2.7 Million. This comes less than a month after TVA raises the cost of power to it's customers. This man already makes 5 to 6 times more the the average working people and if anything TVA should be looking at getting some of the multi-million dollar employees to take a tempary cut to off set some of the monetary problems that TVA is faced with. If that won't work for TVA, then do like the rest of the American working class people and have a reduction in force and let the employees pick up the extra load. Americans have got to educate themselves and come together as a United Nation. On the brink of the of the nation having an economic crash, put our minds together and think smart about our life styles. Please ask TVA to reconsider their rate increase and do not give their employees raises. Thank you. Posted by: Crystal Location: Meadows on Nov 7, 2008 at 02:18 PM To see one individual get a pay increase like this, while the rest of us who are paying his salary have to suffer totally upsets me. This is starting to reek suspiciously of what happened with Fannie Mae and their CEO and CFO. What's next? TVA go under too when we can no longer afford to pay for their energy? How is this man going to help our economy? Obama's redistribution of wealth plan should start with individuals like this... Posted by: Sue Location: Alcoa, Tn on Nov 4, 2008 at 02:39 PM This raise is a slap in the face and fiances! It's obcene that he makes that much to start with before the raise.No one earns that much,unless he's saving lives. Posted by: Steve Location: Tazewell on Nov 3, 2008 at 08:03 PM I would assume that now TVA will rescind the 20% increase given that they have excess funds on hand. Many of the TVA customers who are funding this increase would consider themselves lucky to be earning just 1/10th of his INCREASE. These salaries are ridiculous. Unless he can save the TVA customers an amount equal to or greater than this increase, it should be rescinded. Posted by: Duane Location: Knoxville, TN on Nov 3, 2008 at 10:17 AM I too am appalled by the continued arrogance of many of the nation's top management personnel and their ability to accept compensation that is above and beyond "common sense" levels of pay regardless of the position. It is truly a disturbing testimony to the greed that has overtaken the sports world, business world, etc. It is not acceptable, regardless of what "competition" is paying!! The reigning-in has to begin somewhere and I applaud John Duncan for speaking out! However, it needs to go to the next level, which is responsible corrective action! Stand up America! Let's take our country back! Posted by: Dianna Location: Huntsville on Nov 3, 2008 at 09:59 AM Poor Kilgore hasn't rec’d a raise in 2 yrs. Boo Hoo! My husb got 2 raises in 2 yrs of 25 cents ea. A whopping $10 wk. But now his job has cut him down to 3 or 4 dys. We lost 2 full dys pay and I lost my pt time job. I have had my cable disc, as it is a lux and not a nec. I haven't been groc shopping in 2 mos. bec we simply cannot afford it. We now eat ramen noodles and pb & j. I do not go anywhere I do not HAVE to. All of my trips are very well planned. I now buy ½ a tank a wk and cannot even afford that. My rent just went up ANOTHER $30.mo. this yr as well as last yr. And now TVA wants ANOTHER $30.mo from us. They say it will ave out to about $15. to $20? My ave elec bill is $150. so OUR inc and so many others will be WELL OVER the $20. mark. That is a HUGE inc and abs ludicrous. With fuel coming down have their rates come down? Hell, no! As EVERYONE is HAVING to CUT BACK he gets a salary INCREASE? I guess OUR only option now is using sleeping bags and turning OFF the heat. Posted by: David Location: Gallatin on Nov 2, 2008 at 09:56 PM I have been a self employed businessman for nearly 30 years and have never come close to this kind of salary. In a competitive world, I risk my livelyhood every day. I find it apalling that a public servant with nothing at stake and no competition could command this kind of wage. TVA was extablished long before Mr. Kilgore and will be around long after he is gone. He may be a talented man, but I am certain that TVA's ability to operate has very little to do with this talent. As for you Mr. Kilgore...how much money can one man need? Give me that job for one year. I would run it as well and retire for the rest of my life. Posted by: Mom-of-Two-Girls Location: Scott County on Nov 2, 2008 at 07:58 PM This is ridiculous. If you look at how many times they have raised the rates on us over the last 4-5 years, we are paying at least 50% more now. And this idea that they have that we are NOW in a recession, come on. We started into a recession a long time ago when fuel prices went more than $100 a barrel and the government done nothing. I guess TVA doesn't care if those of us who don't have the high paying jobs that they have, can pay our bills or not. I heard our local rep. on the radio the other day talking about some of our resources that were "unfortunatly" being sent out of the country. Well who told them to do it, not us. I would like to see Mr.Kilgore tell my kids why I can't buy them the things they would like to have. But then again, he doesn't have to worry about trying to stretch his dollars out to pay his electric bill and buy food. Then maybe you have enough to buy gas. Get him out of there, if he's doing such a great job, why so many raises to our bill!!!! Posted by: Bob Location: Maryville on Nov 2, 2008 at 08:22 AM Thank you Congressman John J. Duncan for speaking our minds. Too bad more of our Congessmen don't speak up for "The People" as they should. You are a credit to this great country. No job in this country is worth that kind of money, especially with our economic situation. Again Thank You. Posted by: Jeanne Location: NC on Nov 2, 2008 at 07:30 AM How many more times can the big dogs run right over the little dogs before you finally kill us all? This story makes me sick. If those high paid CEO's had to live one day in the same manner as your average Joe, it might open his eyes! Posted by: Rich Location: Gallatin Tennessee on Nov 1, 2008 at 09:38 PM I served this country at the end of the Vietnam war in the Navy Seals and when I hear of the "abuse" by our government workers and their high wages it makes me wonder if I was on the wrong side. Whatever happened to the motto "public servants?" I hope Tome Gilmore and the whole TVA board gets canned. You don't deserve the salary or the positions. I now have to turn my thermostat down to 67 degrees to heat my home this winter but that obviously isn't a concern to any of you at TVA. Posted by: Ann Location: Gatlinburg on Nov 1, 2008 at 10:15 AM It is unbelievable that during these hard economic times any responsible board would consider the pay raise given to Mr. Kilgore. The board should be looking at ways to conserve money - like freezing salaries of highly compensated employees, not increasing them. Families are struggling to pay utility bills and purchase groceries. Yet TVA feels justified in the action they have taken. So much for caring about Tennessee families. If Mr.Kilgore cannot live on $2,000,000 annually - then he needs to change his lifestyle. You can tell TVA is just another mismanaged government agency!! Posted by: tammy jo Location: knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 11:23 PM its all a way for the rich to get richer. tva was telling us things we could do to make our bill cheaper,like using a certain light bulbs, turning light out that u are not using,ect, then they give us a increase. people started doing all these things,trying to get there bill lower, when tva realized people were using less power, we got another increase. that was their game plan, making us think they were trying to help us then lower the boom.this is one of the things oboma is trying to stop, rich people getting richer, and the poor people paying for it.now tell me do u think this is right, i dont think god does.and we all know god dont like UGLY Posted by: Scott Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 11:22 PM Lets review some simple math. At 8 hours per day working just 5 days per week. Thats 2080 hours. Same as most of us "full time" people. So if we divide the 3.7 mill he's getting in "compensation" (IE pay check) that works out to just around $1778 per HOUR! So for some "in-sight" the average "full-time" person could make that in a WEEK at 44.50 an hour...but in reality at Just $10 (yes ten dollars) and change, working FULL-TIME, you'll make that same $1778 in a month. WOW, math is fun! Posted by: Cindy Location: East Tenn on Oct 31, 2008 at 10:18 PM How can any of the top executives sleep at night knowing that the entire nation has been hit with a triple whammy! Gas sky high, groceries too, energy up and up and up. Of course medicine, doctor visits, hospital costs, school budgets, and a lot more were already at a steady rise and now this man gets a huge increase. Well, welcome to America, home of the fat, rich, corporate executive with no remorse. That seems to be the stereotype with these top ranking execs. I've no doubt Mr Kilgore is a very smart, talented individual but to throw this into the consumers face at this time is a disgrace. It is no wonder our economy is suffering and banks failing while in the TVA circle, the rich get richer at the expense of the poor. There will come a judgement day for all of these so called executives and I hope the misfortunes they have caused the people who work every day to pay for the very product they sell and allows them top dollar is turned around and they could live like the average Joe! Posted by: ed Location: turner on Oct 31, 2008 at 10:17 PM Your tva report gave nothing but comments meant to appeal to the emotions of the mostly illiterate public to which you broadcast. A more balance report would might have included what similiar ceo's earn, the percent of his salary vs tva gross sales. For instancd you could hire me or any other illiterate to run the tva for a lot less, but I know nothing about running a company of this size. This virtually useless dribble from your pathetic news staff is at least part of the reason no one pays very much attention tv news an especially newspapers. Possibly you all might want to consider spending more $ at your station to improve the IQ of your news staff, as it appears you have taken your own implied advise, and hired the cheaper, but less effective news staff. I fully realize what a f/u TVA is/was, but hiring second class ceo's prob'ly ain't the way to improve it, again as demonstated by your one sided presentation about the tva. Posted by: Charles Location: Decatur on Oct 31, 2008 at 09:44 PM If TVA would cut just 10% of its waste and 10% of its useless job positions, they could give him a million $ raise, lower the rates and still have money left to waste. This is a mismanaged goverment organization that needs some serious auditing and some serious housecleaning. Posted by: Dallas/Joann Location: Rutledge on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:56 PM This is so outrageous. At the time all of us are cutting back where we can in order to afford the 20 percent increase in utitities rates, the CEO is awarded??? this large amount. I would like to see him refuse this increase, but don't hold your breath. Posted by: jack langford Location: Seymour Tn on Oct 31, 2008 at 06:42 PM I can see rates going up like 7 percent as it did back around may when OIL was up around 80 dollars or so,but go up 20 per again ! What I want to know now is with coal,oil down 24 percent over the last month when and will TVA come back DOWN the big guy that got the big had a look on his face as to say to hell with you. He and his suck ups are trying to say he worked his back side OFF for his money is a lot of bull;let him get out in the real world in the cold in the winter and the hot in the middle of july , then give him a rase of 3-6 percent as he does to the ones that does the real WORK under him. I"m talking the ones that work out in the streets up the poles in the mud holes ect. He needs to get that smile off his face,but the rates should come back down in about 1-2 months at the if not we need to get mister JOHN DUNCAN to find out why this hurts the little person with layoffs over the hill the ones 62 years on a set income I say once again WHEN IS THE RATES GOING BACK DOWN. Posted by: J PRINCE Location: MORRISTOWN on Oct 31, 2008 at 06:30 PM The board is his buddies. They get highly compensated to be on the board. If he goes they go, so "we got to keep him happy so we don't mess up our $70,000 pay for the few meetings a year we attend." All he does is look at the budget prepared by a few of his staff and pass the increase onto the local utilities. The local utilities also have board whom is compensated (much less) that meets and simply says "pass it on to the customer". Competition is the consumers best friend. No competition then charge whatever you want. Seems like OIL does it. So what can we do. We used less gas by carpooling and making 1 trip to town with numerous stops. Lower demand drives price down. So turn down that thermostat, turn off that light, shut your garage doors, change your light bulds, switch to "natural gas", get solar panels, & everything else. If we all consume less, oil prices stay at their current levels & with all of the plants laying off, perhaps TVA will rescind their rates. Posted by: Earl Location: Crossville on Oct 31, 2008 at 06:12 PM I don't have TVA, but I'm sure in the long run, we will also be charged. This raise is outrageous. Many don't receive a raise for years and we should feel sorry for him because he hasn't had one in two years. Since we are in such a state where it is difficult living off the saleries we receive through retirement and jobs, how can he possibly feel good about accepting such a raise. It's a shame that we all have to make sacrifices to enable a high saleried CEO to live even higher. It would be interesting to see what other benifits we are paying for besides his salery. Car, job expenses, UTILITY,etc.??????? He's worked to be successfull, true, but he didn't do it alone. There should be a limit and millions is not it. Posted by: Kathleen Location: Maynardville on Oct 31, 2008 at 05:58 PM It is very disgusting that such a large raise is given to Kilgore at the comsumers expense. He said he was over ruled about the raise. If he is any kind of a person he would refuse to take it and give the money back. I don't get 30% raises,and I am tired of all these hot shots making big money at my expense. People should all hold back a one month bill until TVA takes his raise back. I am very angry that big companies and the government can just take our money and we don't have any control over it. This is a disgrace. Posted by: Linda Location: Greenback, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 05:50 PM I think it is obscene for Tom Kilgore to get that kind of salary increase when the community served by TVA is in such dire straits! I'm sure the vast majority would feel like lottery winners to receive the salary he already gets. For most of us, it would take many, many years to make what he makes in 3 months. Enough of these bloated CEO salaries and bonuses! Posted by: Rick Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 05:47 PM If Mr. Kilgore Can make more money elsewhere, more power to him, leave and go for it. I can not see putting more of a burden on the people for live here in the valley, supposedly for cheaper electrical rates. Disband this board for such a ludicrous decision, disband TVA. Posted by: Steve on Oct 31, 2008 at 05:46 PM Who has more responsibility? Duncan or Kilgore. Duncan votes himself and his oversized staff a raise every year. I've never heard him turn one down yet. What marvelous bedfellows, media and politicians. Sickening Posted by: Lora Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 05:43 PM That's more that the US president makes! If this guy is so capable and so responsible and has such high standards, perhaps he should run as an independent and get us out of the financial tank the US is currently suffering! Posted by: juanita kroberts Location: jefferson on Oct 31, 2008 at 05:15 PM i don,t thank wwe could have to get out here and work for mim. wage and pay the high light bills for some body to get a big million dollar raise it ain't fair for us to pay. Posted by: Carsten Location: Kodak on Oct 31, 2008 at 05:01 PM This is a disgrace, rates have been hiked several times in a short period citing rising fuel costs as the reason. Yet this individual gets an increase that is beyond reason. This is just another example of the wealthy lining their pockets at the expense of captive customers. Posted by: GERALD/RUTHCROSBY Location: MARYVILLE,TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:58 PM The board of directors are so OUT OF TOUCH-w/reality that its ludicrous. Mr Kilgores job and your positions exist to provide electric service to the PEOPLE you serve. You increase rates 20%-then find "monies" to render a ridiculous increase to the CEO(whom already earns a "above average" salary). Your attitude and Mr Kilgores acceptance thereof-reminds me of why there was a BOSTON TEA PARTY. The people once again are being asked to do without to meet electric bills- while a few become GLUTTONS AT THE TROUG!! Anyone that wonders why people in general feel such disdane for politics and the appointments that result - do not have to look far for a appropriate example here at the TVA. iN ADDITION THE TVA OWES TOO MUCH MONEY ON YOUR DEBT, RIDICULOUS OVERSITE MANAGEMENT OF YOUR FINANCES. Posted by: Karen Location: Maryville on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:53 PM This is the icing on the cake! How could a board award such a raise? How could Tom Kilgore accept his raise with most of his customers in East Tennessee (and the rest of our country) feeling severe economic stress? The only decent thing Mr. Kilgore could do... donate that raise to pay the power bills of those of us living on a fixed income with too little money to pay for our basic needs! Posted by: Sheila Location: Maryville, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:51 PM This is ludicrious. Mr. Kilgore and his cohorts should be fired, rather than giving him a raise. Most of the country is suffering from an economic crisis, which, no doubt, is being created by people like Mr. Kilgore. And TVA wants to give Kilgore a raise. How dare TVA raise the power rate, and then even think about giving ANYONE a raise. Isn't this sort of like AIG getting a bailout, and then sending their staff to a California spa for some R & R. I want John McCain and Sarah Pallin to get rid of all these thieves. TVA has a power monopoly. I would like to see a solar energy company come in and offer solar energy to allow Americans an alternate source of energy. I was told by Alcoa Electric that I can have solar panels installed, but that I would be limited to their use. Supposedly, about 2/3 of my power would still have to be supplied by Alcoa Electric. Posted by: Kim Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:47 PM I am so over the stupid tva board of directors. If you would actuall pull your head out of your butts you could see that this is the dumbist decision ever. I am a single mother and have 3 kids I struggle to pay my bills off of $22,000.00 income a year. I just wish for one year all of you could go through what myself and millions of other people go through. It is called real life!! Live off my income and see how hard it is!!! I bet none of you on the board of directors could possibly mannage. But you would rather raise my electric bill 20% and give raises off that. Thanks so much for ripping off the entire population that you provide to. Tva will not stop here I know you will just keep your hand in our pockets and steal everything we work hard for. You will not be happy untill we can not eat ( which is hard for my family now). So take the raise and sit on it. You are way better off then everyone. You did not need it at all. Posted by: Wanda Location: Maryville on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:26 PM I live on $800 a month. Tried to get help with my utility bill. I was told ,I make to much money. I would love to see any of these high paid people live on that. My utilies run $ 225 per month. How funny is that? Maybe the government will come along and bail me out. I will sit and wait on that to happen. Mr. kilgore I will send you my name and address if you like. Just in case you want to share the wealth. I cannot afford a home phone. Got to stay warm. Have a blessed day. Posted by: John on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:22 PM T.V.A. is just showing the people they can shove it down your throat and make you like it,a whole lot of people don't make in a lift time what he makes as a yearly bonus, its a BIG disgrace Posted by: Dale Location: Bean Station on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:20 PM No one is worth that kind of salary or bonus. When people that on fixed incomes that I see daily are having a hard time paying their electic bill people like this should be ashamed to even consider taking this kind of money from those types of people that are having to pay for such salaries. Another outrage as far as CEO's are concerned. Something should be done as far as these things are concerned. Posted by: jimmie johnson Location: lake city,tn. on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:18 PM This is America land of the free where we have the freedom to be ripped off,shown the injustice,and the only thing we can do is cry.Is this what so many Americans have fought and died for.So the Kilgores can continue to show the rest of us what position we hold in America. Posted by: Al Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 04:14 PM I am retired, what is he trying to do collect all of my Social Security for his personal use. These type of raises during what ammounts to a depression is riduculous. Posted by: electric user Location: east tennessee on Oct 31, 2008 at 03:47 PM It seems to me Mr. Kilgore has buyers remorse. He took this position and was happy with the salary but now he thinks he needs more money,. Well I am not as influential as Mr. Duncan but I think we all have a right to say something about this pay increase. I am glad Mr. Duncan has spoken up for us. The timing is not right to do this. But then would the timing every be right for so a large raise. Shame on TVA for even considering a pay increase at this time. Posted by: James Location: IKnoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 03:16 PM A person would think that with Kilgore makeing 2.7 million that he could live on that. they go up on our rates and then give the Big Dogs a very large raise. Let him cut back like everyone else. We at the Univ. of Tenn. make a whole lot less and we arn't getting a raise this year. Posted by: David Location: Morristown on Oct 31, 2008 at 03:10 PM What has he contributed to merit the raise when industry is cutting jobs and more will be loss with the power rate increase. Others are facing pay cuts as is the case my employment. If the cost of power had been cut, then he deserves a raise. What values does he add to the management of the organization and those customers he serves? By reducing rates, protecting the environemt and providing that leadership is what I feel would merit an increase. My opinion is no one bring value to the any executive job to receive these excessinve salaries. Posted by: Connie Location: Newport, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:58 PM I have always been proud to live in East TN and be able to have TVA for our power. I did not even get very upset when the new rate increase was put into effect, even though I live on a small fixed income and this will be very hard for me. BUT, when a person who is already making millions is given more at a time like this, it really makes me angry. Not only for me,but for the thousands of families in this area who struggle all the time. How can we think that any person, ANY person, is worth so much money and especially when MOST people are just trying to make ends meet? I don't have a problem with wanting to do well and make a good living. I do have a problem with people or companies who don't care. And I think we can safely say the TVA board and this CEO do not care. Shame on you all!!!! Posted by: Mary Location: Oneida on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:50 PM It is really insane for this man to get this raise when the people in this state are suffering from unemployment and trying to live on fixed incomes. How dare he have the nerve to even consider a raise when so many people suffering. I would hope that he is terminated, no-one is worth as much money as he is getting paid. What he should do is pass that money on to people to pay their electric bills this winter. Posted by: Anon. Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:46 PM I doubt it will do anything, but GO Congressman Duncan. He's certainly correct that MANY qualified people can do this job for much less and I would bet most anything many qualified people would line up to do that job for even less than half this insane salary. TVA needs to get with it. Posted by: george Location: mann on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:28 PM Mr. Kilgore should not be rewarded for raising taxes. There are many qualified people who oan,and will, do his job for half of his pay. Posted by: Debbie Location: Corryton on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:20 PM I think it sucks!!! If they had enough money for that we sure didn't need a price hike.My gosh he makes more money than the President of our country. Posted by: Ann Location: Sevier County on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:14 PM In lieu of economic conditions, the last thing needed is a rate increase. Many with your salary are unaware of the economic crisis America is in. I lost my job to it. I have to survive on $122.00 weekly unemployment. Jobs are scarce in spite of diligent seaching. How do you sleep at night accepting such a salary, let alone such an increase. I could live the rest of my life on just one of your year's salary. No one should have to be cold in the Winter because its either food or heat. In closing, be a trend setter to other CEO'S, show your Patriotism and do your part by refusing the increase and encouraging a pay cut by half...at least until the crisis is well over. A real leader is worth following. Thank you for allowing me to voice the opinion shared by countless others. Posted by: Me Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:07 PM As we all are struggling in this recession, I see a CEO without justification in obtaining a 20% "performance" bonus..Hell, why can't he get a 2% bonus? We want to see what TOM has done to deserve this increase! I blame the board or whoever decided he was worth that much money. Can we say BAD TIMING?? We all are struggling trying to keep our heads above water. Also, Mr Bill Sansom, Chairman of the Board of TVA & owner of H.T. Hackney probably has no intention of hearing any of our pleas! This is a very serious situation that WE the people of TN deserve to see a decrease in our electric service, let's say maybe "20%" would be nice. Even though Tom didn't seek or request a pay raise, he certainly didn't decline it either. Thank you John Duncan, Jr. for your support. can we all say together "GREED" Posted by: Frances Location: knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:05 PM That why we can't see the light of day , because ceo's and others get all the hi income jobs, an we the people have to pay for it.Light bills just keep going up. They forget we need a increse also Posted by: Robert Location: Rogersville on Oct 31, 2008 at 02:03 PM So what else is new. The rich get richer and the poor get screwed. What did you expect with George Bush appointing the Board? Posted by: Angie Location: Oak Ridge on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:57 PM How much higher will our rates have to go up so he can receive a bouns package? This seems very unfair while the country is heading toward a depression. This is a prime example of what is wrong wih this country! Posted by: Dan Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:51 PM Little man, meet big business. Big business, meet/screw little man. This is a problem, I am not saying people shouldn't be paid well for top CEO positions, but this is obviously just coming more out our pockets when it should be coming out of the business's pocket. Posted by: Tom Location: Farragut, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:50 PM This is the most ridiculous move that TVA can do at this time. Just one month following a 20% increase, and they want to reward this man! Bull!!!! What they really need to do is reduce or take back the horrendous increase in our power bills (which never should have occured in the first place), reduce his salary to $20,000 a year, and never give him another raise. Poor soul! Posted by: Betty Location: Corryton on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:40 PM If the reason for the 20% hike was due to the lack of rain, we probably could hire quite a few rainmakers for that amount of money! When TVA was created, it was to make cheap electricity for the people of the Tennessee Valley, not to make multi-millionaire CEOs! Posted by: Betty Location: Dandridge on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:32 PM Way to go Congressman Duncan. This is ridiculous, but he probably needs the extra money to pay his electric bill. Posted by: Judy Location: Knoxville, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:30 PM This is so unfair to those of us having to pay a higher rate on our electric bills. Just so the CEO Chairman can live high on the hog. Everyone is suffering at the rate of his raise. Posted by: Christy Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:28 PM I believe that the greed of certain individuals in our society are the main cause of our economic decline. Too many people are well overpaid for their career duties. If we are going into a recession, it will be people like this that will never know what it is like to feel hunger pains nor will they see the dissappointment in their own childrens eyes when they don't get the things they NEED NOT WANT. I feel very sorry for the Country & certain peoples mantallity on the issues that really affect this country as a whole. I hope that he may live very well with his & the others big bonus's that they receive from our 20% increase that they claim was so needed. Well, now we all see why it was needed, not for the benefit of the people, low water or repairs as stated, it is for BONUS'S YEAH FOR THEM, SORRY FOR US. I guess we will have to SUCK IT UP as usual, we do not matter, ONLY OUR MONEY!! Posted by: Peggy Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:28 PM When people are struggling to even survive, and many are losing their homes due to the economy; when some have to choose whether to buy food, buy medicine, or pay utility and other bills, it is heartbreaking that the TVA board decides to give this obscene raise to this man. I'm sure Mr. Kilgore is very good at what he does - just what is it he does that is worth this amount of compensation? I just lost my $35,000 a year job and I worked probably just as hard as Mr. Kilgore does. I am paying more for utilities, food, medical care and everything else necessary for life. I just can't see the reasoning behind this move. It is a kick in the teeth for us taxpayers. Posted by: Donna Location: Oak Ridge on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:26 PM I think it is awful when we have people that can't afford their electric bill or buy food to feed their family. We are and have been paying enough for electric but to raise my bill to give the ceo a raise is uncalled for!!!!!! Posted by: Mary Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:19 PM It is sad that everyone gets big raises then there isn't anything for State workers. I would love to make just 30,000 a yr. I have been paying my Kub late and freezing. Even if I were budget plan I still can't pay it. If the CEO didn't ask for the raise then let him give it back. That will never happen! The only groceries I buy is bread,milk and then go to the food pantry once a month. It is either food or medicine. Everyone needs to quit trying to pay more than the last person had and start out low maybe $50,000 a yr. Maybe the board needs to be elected by us little people. That would gets some folks attention.You know it is bad when try to borrow 15.00, and they tell you we can't be a "loan shark" for you- but when redcross need help we are here to help. The CEO's and others must think we all make 100,000. I've worked 3 jobs and still can't come out ahead. They don't care unless it is for them.Revolk the raise! let him give his raise to be the difference in the electric bills. Posted by: Barbara Ray Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:01 PM Once again, Congressman Duncan is champion for the people. It is immoral for the Board to approve exorbitant raises and bonuses, when Knoxvillians are having their utilities cut off everyday--many with small children. Posted by: norman Location: clinton tn. on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:57 PM just wondering is this rate increase for saleries or for used elecricity? Posted by: Joyce Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:54 PM when is TVA going to start using their real name: LTS= License To Steal Posted by: joan Location: knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:52 PM Good for John Duncan. Some of us cannot even Christmas shop, I bet he can. This is rediculous in this economy. If he were a caring, thoughtful person he would decline this raise. Posted by: Sharon Location: Crossville, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:39 PM The $500,000 pay increase for the TVA CEO is obscene! What is the TVA thinking? The timing of this is incredible as well. Having just announced a rate increase of 20% for electricity, then to approve this huge pay increase…The arrogance of this move is mind-boggling. It sounds like it’s time to get the pitchforks and torches. Posted by: Jim Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:19 PM I'm on a fixed income, and work for the state. We don't get raises. He's got a lot of nerve to take such a raise, when he could have distributed to the people who need it. I'm tired of people being taken advantage of. Posted by: Glenda Location: Greenback on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:17 PM you know the increase in our elctric is fine with the high cost for producing it,but that doesn't give them the write to increase the ceo pockets.There his know one worth that kind of money.He needs to be in our shoes just trying to make ends meet every month. Posted by: Len Location: Hamblen Co on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:15 PM Why should this man get this much money? Is he or anybody worth that much. Mind boggling!! Posted by: Leslie Location: Clinton, Tennessee on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:05 PM I say fire the board and the CEO! While the board is approving big raises the TVA retirees are trying to figure out how they are going to pay for their insurance AND eat! Why can't the board vote on something useful like better insurance premiums for their retirees or lowering rates for retirees? I forgot, that may take some actual thought and require them to actually do some work for their big checks!! Posted by: Ruby Location: Hamblen County, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:02 PM I think the taxpayers are already overburdened. TVA should look inside for cuts before raising rates, especially not giving huge salaries and then raise the rates. The same as I would within my household budget. We have just gotten rate increase in our water in Hamblen County. Posted by: Vickie Location: Seymour on Oct 31, 2008 at 11:03 AM The increase in our utilities could be another medicine a senior has to do without or maybe a new pair of shoes or a winter coat for a child. These "people" making millions off people struggling and sacrificing should have trouble sleeping at night but I guess reality is just too unpleasant for them. Posted by: Melissa Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 10:49 AM I cannot believe that anyone in his position would agreed to take such a compensation package after all of the talk and action taken as to rate increases for everyone when people are having a hard time buying food and gas and just get by. I guess what is more shocking is that the board would recommend such an increase. OUTRAGOUS!!!!! Posted by: amber Location: knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 10:40 AM How dare they raise our rates to give KIlgore a fat increase. He should have to live on a week to week basis just like every else. How dare they . Posted by: Lori Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 10:34 AM In this day and time, the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer! When you have that much money to begin with, what's another million. I cannot pay my KUB bill and have been laid off---does he care........NO!!!! He'll just go buy another boat or vacation house! Enjoy life money grubber!! Posted by: Sandra Location: Newport on Oct 31, 2008 at 10:22 AM How can these CEOS sleep at night? Just to add insult to injury, this comes on the heels of a rate hike! I work in banking and have seen elderly people on Social Security come in and want to apply for a loan just to pay their utilities. There is something definitly wrong with this picture! Posted by: conway Location: philadelphia,tn. on Oct 31, 2008 at 10:15 AM I don't think mr.kilgore should have gotten that big raise it just shows you how the republican run country does he is making more money than the three member board of directors ever made combined.there used to be a cap on the amount of salaries that employees could make if somebody would check in on the amount some other employees make it would probably floor you.also if the rate could go down in january they could go down now.somebody should check into the waste and fraud going on in different organizations within tva. Posted by: Karen Location: Rutledge on Oct 31, 2008 at 10:12 AM A 20% electricity increase when times are hard for everyone -- to pay for a salary increase? Gee, I would like to try to live on one MILLION, let alone 3.27 million. I would love to see his expense reports! If he is a good manager then he will decline the increase. Posted by: Teresa Location: Clinton on Oct 31, 2008 at 09:54 AM My father worked for TVA and retired from there. I was on the phone with his insurance because he was concerned how much would be taken out of his retirement check for his insurance coverage. I think it ridiculous that the TVA retirees are worried about insurance prices when CEO's are getting raises. I guess the rate increase pays for his salary. WHO IS GOING TO HELP MY DAD PAY FOR HIS INSURANCE. I think they need to be held accountable. I am encouraging everyone I know and every one that reads this to contact their senator and congressman. Posted by: LLOYD Location: NEWPORT on Oct 31, 2008 at 09:28 AM What aspired a raise of this caliber? The norm is 3-4%.Yes, the 20% increase on rates makes the anticipated bottom line look good. Do we give raises based on anticipated receipts? This seems to be the way all companies are going. Where is the parity? Posted by: JA Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 09:28 AM I don't dare run my gas fireplace or put my thermostat above 65. Things have gotten out of hand, from sports salaries to ceo compensation. Posted by: Lynn Location: Lafollete on Oct 31, 2008 at 09:25 AM I think someone like this should be locked up in jail. You have old people that can't even pay their bill and then they give someone a raise like this when they are already over paid. It's ridiculous. Posted by: Ron Duncan on Oct 31, 2008 at 09:23 AM Just like the crooks on wall st. and the present administration,crooks everywhere,politicians supposedly over seeing the board that votes on these greedy measures ,these politicians and board members should be exposed before the election, who are they? should'nt your tv station get to the bottom of this today , so that by tuesday at least some of the politicians could be exposed ,ther should be an investigation in to all this corruption ,but probably will not happen.We need to make sure that these crooks answer for all their greed and robbing the public ,this all starts from the top and goes all the way down to the rte payer, who is on a very meager income who can't afford to cut the stove on long enough to cook a meal,because some are trying to pay nearly $2000.00 a month for health insurance go without necessities,just downright poverty stricken,this is what makes this whole subject so depressing.I thank you for allowing me to express my opionion.please keep this going. Posted by: death to tyrants Location: preparing the noose on Oct 31, 2008 at 09:06 AM Where is Jimmy Duncan? Posted by: Michael Location: Knoxville, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 09:05 AM We are extremely OUTRAGED. Every last one of them should be fired on the spot and should be made to live on our income for the next three years. Posted by: Anonymous Location: Lenoir City on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:56 AM This man has a lot of nerve accepting this huge, inappropriate raise! People are just trying to get over the high gas prices, when TVA raises their rates. Then they kick us in the --- by wasting $500,000. Do they expect us to take this lying down? They should have to refund that much to us. Do any of us middle-class hard working citizens get huge pay raises when the companies we work for are losing money? Only if you work for the government! I haven't trusted TVA since they stole all that prime lakeshore property from Loudon County farmers, and made zillions of $$$$$ in profits. TVA lied to them about the need for their land. The only thing TVA needed was to make a lot of money, and they did. Posted by: Billy Location: Bean Station on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:38 AM This is just another example of what our great nation has come to. The rich keep getting richer while the working man and woman struggle to have what they need to make ends meet.If TVA has that kind of money laying around they should give the people a break. The CEO's already make more than they are worth. It would be good to past some of that compensation on to some people that are on low and fixed income. Posted by: James Sisson Location: Kodak, Tn on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:36 AM After announcing a 20% rate increase in the worst recession/depression in modern times, I think deserves all he can get from his BIG BUDDIES on the BOARD. Posted by: Linda Location: Knoxvile on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:30 AM I agree with everything I have read, but if readers really want to do something about it then we need to ban together and either picket the TVA to show our discust or get a petion together and send it to Nashvile. These kinds of things are getting totally out of hand and us and US citizens need to stand up for our rights!!! We are getting screwed and don't even get to enjoy it!!! Posted by: Russ Location: Crossville on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:28 AM We are asked to replace our light bulbs, reset our thermostats and conserve our resources. So we can give it to greedy executives. Maybe he will lead TVA to EARN $15 billion in a quarter!!! How long can, will, the public be robbed without responding? Times are difficult for retired people and many have lost jobs, oil companies are ripping us off and no one seems to care, or have the courage to stop the madness. Thank you, Lamar, for a little light in a dark world. Posted by: Diana Location: Dandridge on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:24 AM When I saw this news report this morning, I can't even put into words how upset I was. I am sitting here in my home and wrapped up in a blanket and sweat pants so that I don't have to turn on my electric heater because I am afraid I won't be able to afford to pay my bill next month with the 30% increase they told me about on last months bill. Then I see that this guy is getting a "raise"... I don't call that a raise ... That is more than twice his salary... What is the deal with that ... I know that there is usually a cost of living increase, but I would call his raise a bit 'OVER THE TOP".. Is this guy gonna help me pay my electric bill with his pay increase??? ( Idoubt it!) I dont' know who approved this, but I think they have lost their ever loving minds...Maybe we can start a petition or something.... Gonna go and take a cold shower, cuz I can't afford hot water anymore... This really needs to be looked at more closely. Posted by: Scott Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:18 AM The OIG is charged with promoting economy and efficiency while preventing and detecting fraud, waste, and abuse affecting TVA. http://oig.tva.gov/contacts.htm Start calling. Over run their phones. Make your voices heard LOUD and CLEAR. This is WRONG WRONG WRONG Posted by: Susan Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:12 AM I feel that TVA thinks that they are being "fair" to their CEO, but they are sure not being "fair" to all of us who are on limited incomes. If they took his increase and gave it back to the people who have to pay the bills, they wouldn't need a 20% raise. I am still waiting for my employer to give me a 20% cost of living raise to compensate for the increases - like that will happen - NOT!! Posted by: Scott Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:12 AM So, let me see if I got this right. The economy is in the dump. People are being laid-off, losing their homes, retirement accounts, and banks are failing...BUT, TVA can raise rates 20% and give out a $500K raise? Shouldn't there be cost cutting measures instead of spending more? How many people have lost their jobs, and can't pay their electric bills? If it was me running the show, I'd fire this yahoo, and get a cheaper replacement to run the company. Or fire the whole board who gave him the raise...but they probably got some raises too. UNREAL!!! Lets all protest, and stop paying the bill...If they shut us off, they'll have no money to give away to OVER PAID yahoo's like this one. I'd really love to see how much he paid in taxes on all the MILLIONS he's making...but I bet its less than what we hard working people pay, only adding insult to injury! 3 million is more than most of us will make in LIFETIME!!!! Posted by: Anonymous Location: Cumberland on Oct 31, 2008 at 08:10 AM I am outraged that people are struggling to pay the power bills now and the CEO is giving that kind of raise. Is there something that can be done about this? Posted by: charles elam Location: knoxville tn on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:49 AM this is what wrong with the country there is no way anybody is worth that kind of money. When all the big company's all over the country complain about lossing money then that have to raise the rate's to make money then they do something like this that is a kick in everyone face. All the president's are talking about JOe the plumber will i am one and i don't think anyone in our goverment know's what it like to live like working people like most of use have to do just to get by. we just need somebody to help the working amercian class. To tva these is wrong and no way that you can justify this. Posted by: Virginia Location: Dandridge on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:40 AM In these days of tough economy, and the cost of electricty from TVA being raised, it is ridiculous for the head of that company to get such a raise. The raise for electricty we are now paying is going for his raise? I'd rather his pay stay where it was, or get cut, and let us have lower utility bills. Posted by: Tim Location: Monroe County on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:31 AM I am not against anyone getting a deserving raise, but this looks really bad after a large rate increase, especially since "fuel" prices have declined so much yet there is no mention of a TVA rate DECREASE. They ( TVA) need someone as CEO who will utilize the natural assets they have ( millions of acres of farmland) instead of leasing it to home developers. That way they can create their own fuel such as biodiesel instead of feeding the bad mortgage industry. Just my opinion. Posted by: carol the plumber Location: russellville tn on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:22 AM SHAME on Tom Kilgore This is a time to help the country, not rape it with a giant pay raise, when so many are out of work. shame shame shame Just another GREEDY CEO ! Posted by: Lora Location: Knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:22 AM It pisses me off!! Whan people are losing their homes and jobs they increase our electric prices but have the money to give him that much of a raise. If they can afford to pay him that much than they can cut their rates!!! Posted by: Doug Location: Kingston, TN on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:19 AM A perfect example of why our economy is in the shape it is in. Families loosing their homes, and struggling just to survive. How can TVA justify raising power costs the way they did stating it was necessary to continue operations and then give one man a 3.2 million dollar salary. If he is that good then I don't see that we need a board to do all the work. Posted by: Angie Location: Dandridge on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:16 AM No ones contribution to any organization whether private, public, or government is worth 3.7 million dollars. It is a shame to raise the cost to the end consumer of such an essential thing as power and then turn around and give the CEO such an increase. Has the average household income increased? Has more jobs come to this area? I think it says alot about his character that he was willing to accept the raise given the economic struggles of the average household. Where is his compassion and sense of what is equitable and fair? If he had cut costs and and eliminated waste, reduced the cost of power, and lowered end consumer rates, then give the man an increase. An increase at his level in an organization should NOT be funded by rate increases, but be based on cost savings initiatives. Posted by: Bobby Location: Madisonville,Tenn on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:16 AM I think this is a shame and disgrace for the TVA Board to approve such an enormous raise for someone already make a large salary. There are people in our area that will either eat or pay their light bill to stay warm. All CEO in large companys such as TVA,are getting large raises,while the working people have to pinch their pennies just to get by. Companies are laying off workers and someone already makeing a large salary gets a raise. This just is not right!! Why should he get a raise as large as he got when other people are having to cut food or medications to survive. This includes children have to do without also. I would like a response as to why he should get such a raise. Is it because he was the leader to raise our bills 20% so that he could get more money? Posted by: michelle Location: east Tn on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:16 AM another example of greed! Here we have Families living right here in Tn that cant afford homes yet Im sure he has a very nice comfy one....with all the perks...enjoy the money.Im sure you've worked extra hard to earn it! Posted by: sharon Location: knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:08 AM I think this is horrible and a slap in the face to those who utilize KUB. Our country is already having financial difficulties, people are paying more and making less, some making nothing so how can KUB justify giving anyone in their company this kind of money. That doesn't say much for KUB! They should be ashamed to allow that to happen! Posted by: james Location: knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:05 AM ridiculous Posted by: anonymous Location: knoxville on Oct 31, 2008 at 07:01 AM IT STINKS WHAT A RIP OFF....NOT WORTH IT... Posted by: Eddie Location: Morristown on Oct 31, 2008 at 06:44 AM This is a clear example of how TVA is taking advantage of the consumer. TVA is right there with the oil companies now but what are we to do? They have us under their thumb only now they are squishing us! Posted by: Regina Location: Morristown on Oct 31, 2008 at 06:36 AM I awoke this morning to hear the news that the TVA has implemented the largest tax hike in history, which from what those of us who have to pay these bills we were told it was to pay the difference in the economical changes. Unfortunately we also hear that this raised the CEO base line salary. AS an average JOE I have a large problem with this. I don't make a large salary and a 20% hike causes me to take from Peter to pay Paul. All though I know this isn't an illegal move on the TVA's part, I think that government needs to take a look at what this means to the average Tennessean and where we can make changes for the good of the people, With the economy the way it is we don't need companies that reward their CEOs but forget about the average Citizen. Posted by: Wanda Location: Maryville on Oct 31, 2008 at 06:29 AM The news of the TVA:CEO sickens me. People are loseing homes,jobs and either deciding whether to buy groceries or medicine, our rate in the electric bill was suppose to be because of a need . How can we stop this? Posted by: KINGME Location: Halls on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:42 AM Look at the one eye GYMP smiling like he is KING. So they raised the prices on us to make GYMP BOY smile in his pictures. THANKS GYMPY ONE EYE OLD MAN Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 31, 2008 at 01:23 AM I think it is a shame that the Tennessee Valley Authority board is following the example of the companies on WallStreet, wherein they are lining the pockets of the CEO & President of TVA. This is after customers were slammed with the highest increase in power rates in three decades along with increased prices on groceries and other items. Posted by: Roy Location: Roane County on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:10 AM This news is really disheartening. I see he is not eager to turn the raise down. Surely he knows the reaction of what this news would be. Maybe he should turn around and donate the raise to charity to be distributed to those who will be on the verge of having their power turned off this winter. Posted by: Darlene on Oct 31, 2008 at 12:06 AM No wonder he's smiling' After all the price of his trips to Europe and his wifeys diamonds have gone up...what were we thinking. Posted by: BeccaE Location: Pigeon Forge on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:54 PM I'm personally insulted. To take from those of us who work HARD to give to those who do NOTHING seems ... unAmerican. It's demonstrative of the dispatriotization of America, and an impassioned personal greed I had hoped our nation had grown beyond. It's disgusting, disheartening, and insulting to those of us who are having trouble eeking out an existence in the Forge in this time of harsh economic realities, rising [and rising and rising] local prices, and a downturn in income brought in by tourism. I think its time to get a new board and CEO for TVA, that's what I think. Posted by: CAROLYN Location: KNOXVILLE on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:54 PM THIS IS A CLEAR SIGN OF GREED, AND NOT BEING AWARE THAT ALOT OF PEOPLE ARE HURTING.AND WHO CARES.IF WE CAN'T PAY OUR ELECTRIC BILLS.AS FOR HIS SALARY IT WAS WAY TO HIGH IN 2006. Posted by: Mary Location: Hamblen County on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:48 PM This is upsetting..In Hamblen County They raise our water bills. They want to raise our taxes..Alot of East TN people have lost their jobs and can't afford their bills nows..I lost my job last Nov. and now I'm going to school which is good but finacially hurting..It was the 5th job dued to cutbacks or shotdowns (Jobs going to Mexico) Like the song says"The rich getting richer and the poor getting pooer) Aren't you glad to be American!!!! Posted by: unknown Location: knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:42 PM If I remember correctly TVA decided to raise our prices because of the economy. This is the 2nd hike within the same year. I am appalled that the TVA Board decided to approve the raise for the CEO. I guess we know the real reason for our price increase. I think the Board needs to rethink their priorities and think about their customers. Say's in the article that he was not going to decline his raise. Well, of course not, who in their right mind declines a raise. Most of us here in the real world,and I mean me a Registered Nurse, only get a 3% cost of living raise. This man has recieved an 83% increase in his pay. I must say that is completely appalling and shameful on their part. People are worrying where the money for gas and food is coming from and he gets that kind of raise. I guess if we need help paying our utility bill we can call Mr. Kilgore to help. Looks like he will have the money. Posted by: James Location: Newport on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:40 PM It seems T.V.A. don't understand that they work for the government,as I recall a few short years ago the C.E.O.was fired and the board was reduced in size.now we are back in the same fix,until we the people get enough and take these public leaches to task,nothing will change!T.V.A.was builtand paid for in the 30s and 40s by taxpayers,to help get electric power to the poor people of tenn.,alabama,etc.and what cost is free water to turn turbines,maybe he gets paid to figure how much water was used a day.well one thing for sure,they have met the goal to furnish electricity to POOR people,come on folks don't let them get away with this,lets raise a stink so bad they'll think they fell in a cesspool!!!!! Posted by: Leonard Location: La Follette on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:38 PM I believe that CEO's should not receive increases in compensation in light of the problems we are facing as a nation. When we are witnessing shrinkage of retirement accounts and loss of jobs and a looming recession it is outrageous that the board of directors would allow this increase. Who has the authority to make the board of directors take notice? Posted by: Amanda Location: Maryville on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:27 PM As if we don't have it hard enough these days with our lovley economy. You have the goverment bailing out all the multi million dollar businesses. What do all the average working population get from this? I'll tell you. We get taxes raised and get nothing in return. I am so over getting a pay check every friday and as soon as it is cashed it is gone to pay bills. I have nothing to show for my hard work. I think it is the stupidest thing to give someone who already has more money than they know what to do with even more money to blow or just sit in thier bank account. When I can't even afford to pay my bills on time cause I don't have the money. I bet I am not the only one who fed up with this goverment. Something has got to change!!!! Posted by: TJ Location: Powell on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:24 PM Shame on the board and shame on Mr. Kilgore. What goes around comes around-Maybe they will all burn in you know where feeling the heat like the poor who can't afford airconditioning because of them robbing from the poor to give to the rich. Sounds like we need an all new board and a new CEO who has a conscience. Posted by: Jerry Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:23 PM When is enough enough. Was he having a hard time making it on his 2 million compensation package so he needs another million. Come on. They need to fire the whole TVA board but we all know that isn't going to happen. If America doesn't change were all doomed. Posted by: Madder than Hell Location: East Tennessee on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:21 PM This is just another step in the anarchy that is raping America. Self greed by a small group of people at the top of the corporate ladders is putting the masses out of work and in the poor house. The idiots that continue to pass these ludicrous bonuses and salaries obviously are getting a large return as well. There needs to be a cap of top executive compensation and pain for them when they ship jobs offshore. Another measurable for top executives needs to be how many American jobs they create or save. Insider advice stock investors, when a company announces a layoff you need to with draw your money not invest it and have stock prices jump. By then it's probably too late to recover. So quit rewarding senior officials for destroying our long term manufacturing base to pad their own pockets. Posted by: Virginia Location: Whitesburg on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:18 PM I can't say I'm surprised. Corporate America and our politicians are working hand in hand to take what belongs to the American people. We're having trouble paying our electric bill and this man is living high on our money. How do these people justify their greed? When does it stop? How can this man go home to his family and spend a pleasent evening when he knows there are others who can't pay their electric bill? Especially at this time when we are all strugging. Where is the the humanity. Must be in the pockets of the electric co. Posted by: Jody Location: Sevierville, TN on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:17 PM And they wonder why people are losing their homes. I am currently trying to figure out to keep heat on in my home for my 3 year old. There is not construction work for me to earn a living and pay my bills. Well at least he and HIS FAMILY will be warm this year! Merry Christmas - we will not have one. Tom and his family will however. Hopefully we will have a few crumbs of bread and water for Thanksgiving. Might have to search Tom's trash for some scraps - what do you all think? Posted by: BeccaE Location: Pigeon Forge on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:16 PM With Exxon reporting record profits of $15BUS this QUARTER by dint of the blood, sweat, and tears of hard working Americans, I have to say this latest development at TVA is completely unacceptable. This is nothing more than a disgusting demonstration of how far corporate/political heads will go to spit in the faces of those of us, upon whose backs, their careers were BUILT. What skill and/or service could this man POSSIBLY provide for the TVA to deserve such a salary?! I think this has less to do with partisan politics and 100% to do with corporate and personal GREED. I think it's time the CEO AND THE BOARD are fired and replaced. IMMEDIATELY! Posted by: Derek Location: Newcomb, TN on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:16 PM TVA's 20% increase has come at a time when most families across East Tennessee are feeling the pain of depression. It comes at a time when our country is at war and record numbers of homeless arrive on Knoxville streets. TVA has been turning over historic lands that left pioneers landless and have turned them over to wealthy developers. TVA was started "to help the poor" and has since become a way to enrich the wealthy and middle class. As a major utility, the compensation package needs to be commensurate with other utilities. However, I cast a vote of "no confidence" in what has become Tennessee's "beast of burden" Posted by: Tom Location: Morristown on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:13 PM Sounds like good old Wall Street. We are all in trouble over their greed. The Federal Government says they will do something about CEO abuse. Its not likely. TvA is no different because it is part of the government that promotes this kind of greed. I think the board needs to be released from their duties. TVA needs to be run like a business, not a government agency. Posted by: BUCK Location: KNOXVILLE on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:12 PM I THINK THIS IS OUTRAGEOUS AND VERY UNFAIR FOR THE WORKING CLASS. WHAT DOES HE DO TO DESERVE THAT KIND OF PAY????????? Posted by: Kimberly Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:12 PM The way the economy is and most of us as working people trying to budget our lives to stay ahead, I think they should try to put that extra money back into the energy problem they are saying they have. Instead of borrowing energy from elsewhere build more things to support the increased demand of our area. People want the money but are not willing to do the job properly that goes along with it. Try living on a normal persons salary for a year, and see why we don't see the point in all these increases. Posted by: amy Location: lenoir city on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:10 PM i think it is disgracful for TVA to raise rates and then give theirselves a raise.maybe one of these days they won't be able to pay their bills like some people are now Posted by: Doyle Location: Oak Ridge on Oct 30, 2008 at 11:10 PM This is outrageous and a rape of the citizens rights and utility bills. I care less about raising some so-called executive's salary to such an unjustified amount. This should be a crime and utility customers reimbursed. Posted by: Ryan Location: Oneida on Oct 30, 2008 at 10:17 PM I am for CEO's being compensated "fairly." However, most businesses will only give a large increase to their leader when the company is being successful and being well managed. When a company must increase their prices by 20% (at one time)in order to be operational, I can assure you they are not being managed properly! Therefore, the last person to be getting a raise on their salary should be the person in charge of the administative decision making and management of that company(CEO). Posted by: sonja Location: morristown on Oct 30, 2008 at 09:45 PM This is an outrage. I guess they had to raise the rates 20% to pay for it! Grainger County raised theirs 30%. Posted by: Jeanette Location: South of Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 09:42 PM This is the biggest rip off yet. Well, what comes around goes around and I would hate to be in Kilgore's shoes when it comes home to him. With folks being layed off and with the price of living the way it is, how could he even consider taking such a hugh raise? I couldn't have accepted the money, not ever, because I don't think NO MAN or WOMAN, for that matter, is worth that kind of money. If he had a heart at all he wouldn't take it. If he needs a few addresses to give donations to, God knows there should be plenty of them for him to find. From a very disappointed poor family that's lives in a poor area of TVA. Jeanette Martin PS Can I forward my power bill to him this winter? Posted by: jerry Location: knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 09:27 PM i think they are all stupid for giving him thatkind of a raise Posted by: ticked Location: knoxville, tn on Oct 30, 2008 at 09:24 PM This is just wrong. Is there not some type of oversight to look into this? Posted by: on to the Bastille Location: Pitchforks R Us on Oct 30, 2008 at 09:14 PM The president's salary is 400K. What kind of an assinine operation pays subordinates more than managers? TN governor makes 95K; football coach should only make 94. Lottery director should be run back to Georgia--we'll keep her 750K. Posted by: HOWARD Location: LENOIR CITY on Oct 30, 2008 at 08:58 PM JUST MORE OF McCAIN/BUSH SPREADING THE WEALTH FROM THE POOR & MIDDLE CLASS TO THE WEALTHY, YOU KNEW THIS WAS GOING TO HAPPEN AFTER THE RATE INCREASE Posted by: Nancy Renfroe Location: New Market, TN on Oct 30, 2008 at 08:53 PM Well Now I have heard it all. This is about as stupid as the time TVA tried to have a meeting in sunny Hawaii, But thank Goodness I was working at the time and ran a story about their plans to use customers money to pay for the expense. Boy were they mad they did not get to go. I refuse to come out of retirement for these nuts who are still trying to rip off the customers. This man needs the money like I need a new hole in my head. Wake Up Tennessee, You are being ripped off by experts at the game. Posted by: Robert Location: Gatlinburg on Oct 30, 2008 at 08:46 PM Sounds like we need a new TVA board of directors and CEO that care about customers first rather than personal gain. If the CEO had such a glowing work evaluation by the board, why are customers receiving a 20% rate hike? I would think the board would have more sense and professionalism to see that this is definately not the appropriate time to award such a huge pay increase while the customers are struggling to make ends meet with their families. Sounds like another government buyout where the big CEO's are the only one's laughing all the way to the bank. By the way, how much of an increase will the board members see? Please look at yourselves in the mirror and ask if you truly feel this decision was in the best interest of TVA customers. Posted by: Eddie Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 08:35 PM This is outrageous!! How can these people sleep at night knowing they are affecting the lives of so many people by raising rates to give the CEO a raise. Looks like they are taking lessons from Wall Street CEO’s. There has to be a stopping point. The ratepayers have to complain to their lawmakers and force them to put an end to this abuse. Posted by: EVELYN Location: MOORESBURG on Oct 30, 2008 at 08:32 PM I WOULD JUST LIKE TO THANK TVA FOR INCREASING MR. KILGORE'S SALARY. IT'S GOOD TO KNOW THAT THE PEOPLE WE TRUST TO TAKE CARE OF US DO THAT BY RAISING PRICES SO THAT THE BIG DOGS CAN HAVE AN INCREASE IN AN ALREADY RIDICULOUSLY ENORMOUS SALARY. JUST SO YOU KNOW, I WILL CONTINUE TO PAY MY LIGHT BILLS OUT OF MY $751.00 DISABILITY CHECK. BY THE WAY, DOES MR. KILGORE EVEN HAVE TO PAY HIS BILL, OR IS THAT ANOTHER PERK OF HIS JOB, TO HAVE US SCHMUCKS PAY HIS BILL ALONG WITH OURS? Posted by: Ed Location: Roane County on Oct 30, 2008 at 08:30 PM We just experienced a rate increase from TVA(taking valuable assets). It is typical missmanagement and abuse by those in power. It reminds me of U,T, cutting programs but never a mention of reducing the extravagant salaries of professors,just keep going up on tuition. The poor are truly getting poorer and the rich getting richer .on our dime.Lord help those this winter who will turn down their heat so they can eat ,Hope you gag on your big fat raise!!!! Posted by: Bob Windscheffel Location: Crossville on Oct 30, 2008 at 08:28 PM This is a total outrage! It's no different than the big banks that fleeced the people and went on luxury vacations. They are definitly not Christians or they would not do this! Only the devil would do a thing like this. Posted by: stella Location: lenoir city on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:37 PM I think it's shameful when people in exec. positions take bonuses and other compersations in outlandish amounts,when other people are hurting so. That includes bank ceos who take bailout taxpayers money and coaches of UT football and also ceos of TVA. Shame on all of you people. Others are looseing homes and jobs and greed still outweighs concern for others. This is part of the problem which lead to the mess America is in today. Posted by: Sue Location: Robbins on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:30 PM This is ridiculous. Children won't have enough to eat this winter, but Mr. Kilgore can't make it on $600,000 a year and had to have a raise.Poor man!I hope he thinks about those that may have to do without food or heat when he takes that nice fat raise to the bank. When he goes to bed at night in what I am sure is a fine mansion somewhere, maybe he won't think about the elderly that can't pay for the medications they need because they can't live without heat, or the children who won't get enough to eat because their parents are struggling to keep their heads above water. Maybe he can look at himself in the mirror and not see the greedy man that we see. Maybe he can.....but I hope not. Posted by: Katrina Location: Madisonville on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:26 PM MAYBE THE GOVERNMENT WILL BALE US OUT! PAY OUR ELECTRIC BILLS FOR US. IF YOU BELIEVE THAT I GOT A BRIDGE OVERLOOKING THE OCEAN IN TENNESSE I'LL SELL YOU. Posted by: james Location: maryville on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:17 PM I think this is totally out of line. Another case where we are rewarding a CEO for raising our rates while the little man struggles to pay the bill. There are people who simply can not pay their electrical bill. These board members don't seem to care or not aware of it. Posted by: Joe Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:17 PM Contact your congressman, tell them TVA needs more oversight so they will stop fleecing lower and middle class Americans. Posted by: Janice Location: Robbins on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:16 PM With our economy in the shape it is today, with working families struggling to make ends meet, and our elderly making the difficult choice of needed medications or staying warm and eating, this is not only obscene but criminal. Was this why they put a rate increase into effect? These people should be ashamed, how can they sllep at night? Posted by: Tim Location: Morristown TN on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:15 PM He,and other TVA employees, should NOT get pay raises until our rates drop back down due to the decrease in oil prices. Otherwise, fire him and I'll do his job for just $150,000.00 a year. I've worked as a corporate treasurer and controller before and I'll be more than willing to do it again. How hard can it be to run TVA? Posted by: donald eldridge Location: morristown on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:15 PM I think this is appoling,no one weather him or me deserve bonuses like this,I would like just a 1000 bonus on my social security disability check.How can TVA even sleep at night.?I don't know how i will even pay my electric bills. Posted by: Bill Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:13 PM I am so tired of these "executives" receiving these excessive pay packages when every day hard working people are having a difficult time paying their bills. If these companies had not been paying some of these excessive so much money, these companies would not have needed to be bailed out. This has got to stop and the stock holders and public need to stop just standing by being silent. Posted by: Brian Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 07:11 PM I understand the economics of capitalism, however there must be limits when these benefits are paid from raising prices not doing a better job. We are trapped because we need the power and there is no choice from whom to purchase it. Posted by: Charles Location: Madisonville,TN on Oct 30, 2008 at 06:46 PM In my Bible it says that if we see a widow, poor person or homeless person IN NEED! we're suppose to help them, not take from them. In times such as these, you'd think the Presidents and CEOs, along with all our government officals would have mercy on the people who pay them in the first place...well I bet this Kilgores a anti-christian... He has his reward already... Hope you'r happy, healthy and feel loved! and oh! hope you eat lots of turkey this Thanksgiving, my family will have to stay warm first and not eat. Posted by: Michael Location: Jacksboro on Oct 30, 2008 at 06:46 PM A true CEO with Shareholders (IE: Ele. Customers)best interests in Mind would Not Accept a Large Raise after Failing to Hold Cost down to Avoid a rate Increase. The TVA Board of Directors acted in their own best Interest not OURS. TVA should almost run on Auto pilot the way it is setup. A CEO to run this type of operation should not be Paid more than $725,000.00 per year total Comp. Package. TVA has a build in Revenue Stream. There is no product development or Mass Marketing Needed like for Example Coke-Cola USA or GE. This is no more than friends taking care of Friends at our Expense. A good CEO would find ways to trim cost and overhead to avoid a rate increase long before accepting a raise. and I know this from being a Senior Director Of Ops that only reported to a Board of A large Corp. with over 40,000 employees for a number of years with Ops in 25 States. Posted by: ROSEMARY Location: ALCOA on Oct 30, 2008 at 06:46 PM SEEMS LIKE BAD TIME FOR SUCH A PAY RAISE WHEN SO MANY PEOPLE WILL BE COLDER THIS WINTER BACAUSE OF RATE HIKES. i THINK GOVERNMENT SHOULD PUT CIELING ON SALARIES IN THESE TOUGH TIMES. Posted by: george Location: east tn on Oct 30, 2008 at 06:17 PM well i guess it is back to the shelter this winter can't stay home can't pay e-bill maybe he will let me stay with him Posted by: Steve Location: Maryville on Oct 30, 2008 at 06:15 PM If you really want honest opinions....I think it's more of the same as the rest of the government....they steal us blind and expect us to like it...or don't care weather we like it or not....It's like the people or customers don't matter to them at all.....and I don't mind if you give them my comment and my contact info too...I never speak anything but the truth so I welcome their comment back also...I'm Steve Pennington At 4231 Sevierville Rd. Maryville Tn. 37804 865-406-9169 and I also am a property owner and I vote ...Thank you, Posted by: clarence Location: Powell, Tn on Oct 30, 2008 at 06:12 PM I just can't believe the CEO deserves this kind of money, Company & CEO should be ashamed when we are struggling to keep Utilities on ourselves. SHAME SHAME!!! Posted by: Dena Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 06:11 PM What a bunch of bull!We are stuggling to eat,pay light bills keep our jobs, (disgraced weakly hourly jobs), and they take food out of our families mouth and give him a raise of such magnitude? He and our goverment should not be able to sleep at night, what the he-- are they thinking? It shows!! Only there greed I hope that rot. Posted by: Kim Location: Grainger County on Oct 30, 2008 at 06:02 PM That is what is wrong with the economy today. I don't think he should get anything, he's getting enough already. It's just greed, and greed is taking over. I think people like that need to be investigated. People are going hungry in the world, but all the rich and wealthy care about is the almighty dollar. It's not right. Posted by: Harold Location: Madisonvillem Tn. on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:58 PM DEFINATELY NO RAISE. IF ANYTHING HIS SALARY SHOULD BE CUT IN HALF. AND NONE OF THEM SHOULD BE GETTING THOSE END OF THE YEAR BONUS MILLIONS EITHER. Posted by: Amanda Smith Location: knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:55 PM I think it a crock, there is a special place for people like him. I Hope he can lay down at night. while working people can't afford there k.u.b ,so there for burn baby burn!!!! Posted by: William Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:52 PM This is the same man that said we needed more rain to help offset the use of fossil fuels and could help reduce our utility bills. I will sleep soundly tonight knowing that he will no longer have to worry about filling his tank or paying his electric bill due to his raise. Thanks TVA for making it possible for him with our hard earned money. Looks like Christmas came early for him Posted by: William Location: Monterey on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:51 PM Please publish the names of the TVA Board members so the public knows who to thank for this obscene raise. Especially welcome news following our 20% rate hike. It's theft, what else can you call it? Posted by: Charlie Odom Location: Hamblen Co. on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:49 PM They should cut the CEO's pay instead of giving him such a huge raise. It is a bad time to raise utility rates especially to older citizens and the job market is down. His compensation package is outrageous while some people can't even pay their electric bill and winter is coming and that will make it even harder on everyone. Posted by: Richard Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:48 PM This is outrageous, what is the matter with these people. TVA needs to be revamped. Financial hard times and TVA has the gall to do something like this, just outrageous! Posted by: Floyd Location: east tn on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:43 PM I don't ceo or not should have that much of a raise. if the increase in our electric bill was for his salary. how many other employees got raises at our expense Posted by: Laura Location: Knoxville on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:12 PM Well that explains it all! From the look of his picture he's happy... we're all about making everyone else happy aren't we? Nice to know my struggles to pay my high heat bill this winter is to pay the wealthy more wealth... why won't realisitc changes be made to stop this from happening all the time? Posted by: McCain Location: Crossville on Oct 30, 2008 at 05:07 PM I sure hope he spreads that wealth around. No wait, give it to me and let me redistribute it for him.

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