City Council Proposes Controversial Salary Increase

During a recent city council meeting, officials discussed a proposed salary increase for council members, suggesting an adjustment of $113.15 per month, which would raise their monthly compensation from $1,646.46 to $1,721.61. This proposed increase represents a 7% hike, aligning with salary adjustments granted to city employees over the past two fiscal years.

City staff clarified that the salary increase for council members is intended to reflect the same percentage increase that city employees received, which was a cumulative 7.1% over the last two years—3.2% in the first fiscal year and 3.9% in the second. However, the council's proposed adjustment would not take effect until December 2024, following the next election cycle, as mandated by state law.

Council members acknowledged that their roles are driven by community commitment rather than financial incentives, emphasizing their dedication to public service. The council is set to further discuss and potentially vote on the ordinance, which will be introduced as ordinance number 1436.