During a recent East Providence government meeting, council members engaged in a robust discussion regarding the proposed increase in the mayor's salary. The conversation highlighted the need for a significant adjustment, with some council members advocating for a raise to $110,000, citing the current salary of $90,000 as below average compared to other municipalities in Rhode Island.

Council members expressed a consensus on the necessity of increasing the mayor's pay to attract qualified candidates, with one member noting that potential candidates have declined to run due to the low salary. However, there was a strong emphasis on avoiding language that would tie salary increases to the city charter, as this could restrict future councils from making necessary adjustments based on economic conditions.

Several council members proposed that any salary increase should take effect only after the next election cycle, ensuring transparency and preventing any appearance of impropriety. The discussion also touched on the importance of regular reviews of elected officials' salaries, suggesting that an annual check-in could be incorporated into the budget process to ensure salaries remain competitive and reflective of the responsibilities held by the mayor and council.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to draft an ordinance that would set the mayor's salary for the next term, allowing for flexibility and responsiveness to the city's financial situation without being bound by charter restrictions. This approach aims to balance the need for fair compensation with fiscal responsibility, ensuring that the city can attract capable leadership while managing its budget effectively.