In a recent government meeting, council members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding proposed salary adjustments for the Mayor and council members, focusing on the implementation of a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) based on the Consumer Price Index for Wage Earners (CPIW). The proposal aims to ensure that the Mayor's salary remains aligned with inflation and market standards, with CPIW averaging between 2% and 3% in recent years, though it has spiked above 6% in the past two years.

Council member Nueva Camino highlighted the complexities of the city's governance, emphasizing the importance of the newly established Chief Operating Officer (COO) position in managing these challenges. The council is considering a recommendation to increase the Mayor's salary annually by the CPIW, with a proposed effective date of January 1, 2025, to accommodate budgetary and administrative changes.

Council member Anderson raised questions about the total compensation package for council members, noting that benefits account for approximately 38% of their salary, excluding a $500 car allowance. This led to a broader discussion about the adequacy of the current car allowance, with some members expressing a preference for a city vehicle or cash compensation instead.

Council member Stewart expressed support for the CPIW adjustment, suggesting it would streamline the salary process and address previous discrepancies. However, there was a divergence of opinion regarding the car allowance, with some members advocating for its retention at last year's level while others opposed any increase.

Vice President Forsyth cautioned against fully integrating CPIW into future salary discussions, arguing that it could diminish the council's responsibility to actively engage in salary evaluations. The council ultimately agreed to revisit the topic periodically, ensuring that salary adjustments remain a point of active discussion.

As the council prepares to finalize these recommendations, the implications of these salary adjustments will be closely monitored, particularly in light of the ongoing economic fluctuations and the need for transparent governance.