PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — 11 of Governor Dan McKee’s cabinet officials are in line to get a pay bump, and some Rhode Islanders are not pleased. “They already got the money that they need,” Providence resident Felcris Mendez said. “They already get paid enough.” Republican Senate Minor ity Leader Jessica De La Cruz echoed that sentiment Tuesday. “Rhode Islanders are struggling to pay for their electric, their gas, their groceries,” De La Cruz said. “It doesn’t seem right to be giving raises to probably one of the few best paid employees in the state.” McKee said the wage increases are all about remaining competitive. “We know that we’re heading into some uncertain times,” he said. “We want to make sure that we retain our good staff that we have.” Among those in line for a raise would be Rhode Island Department of Transportation Director Peter Alviti. After one year of frustration surrounding the Washington Bridge breakdown, ABC6 asked the governor if Alviti’s performance warranted a pay increase. “Yes, I do,” McKee said. “We’re going to be competitive with our neighbors.” “Our infrastructure in the state of Rhode Island has improved 14 spots since I’ve been governor,” he added. Some who have to cross the bridge every day disagree with that evaluation. “That bridge is crazy, it’s not worth it,” Mendez said. “He’s not worth a raise, they need to put that money in the bridge.” McKee said the raises for the 11 officials will only add up to around $85,000. The proposal will first go through a public hearing Wednesday before it’s referred to the Rhode Island Legislature for their approval. Categories: News, Rhode Island ...read more read less