I am thoroughly amazed at the salaries the University pays "because that's what the market dictates" for non-academic staff (administrators, managers, secretaries, pipefitters, etc).  In most cases, you could hire two people to do the job for the same cost and, knowing some of those overpaid people and the "value" they provide, I'm certain they'd generally do a better job.  Comparing U of I salaries (dailyillini.com/salary-guide) to other state employees (herald-review.com/app/data/salaries.php), particularly those within Champaign County, you get an idea for just how high they are.  There are plenty of local residents who would gladly take these jobs for a fraction of the pay.  There would be no moving expenses to pay and a low turnover by employing people who are more likely to stick around more than a few years.  We have a talented pool in the area and we should use it.  They may not be the absolute best and brightest money can buy but are we really getting our money's worth?  Couldn't we settle for good enough when they don't directly impact the academics?  I'd take the President's job for 1/20th the price and no bonus.  When will it end and what can we do to expedite it?  Cutting state funding hasn't seemed to help and in fact there salaries seem to have climbed at the top of the pay scale during the past couple years.