A friend sent me a copy of this article. I am happy to see Deanna Santana being compensated at an amount that probably represents her real value to the City of Santa Clara. I don’t know her but I’ll bet that she is worth even more. US history and current day practice denigrates the importance and value of public employees, particularly at the executive level. Ms Santana may benefit from the success of her predecessors but the comments of council members published in your article are knowledgeable and supportive of their decision. If you want highly qualified persons to carry out the city’s business then you should pay them accordingly. The highest paid public employees in California are the football and basketball coaches whose activities do not benefit the taxpayers. Congratulations Santa Clara City Council.