The Regular City Council Meeting for the City of Soledad took place on May 1, 2024, focusing primarily on discussions regarding potential increases in council compensation. The meeting began with council members expressing their support for a pay increase, emphasizing the importance of reviewing the city's budget before making any final decisions.

One council member highlighted the need for a careful approach, suggesting that any proposed changes to compensation should be revisited during the upcoming annual budget review in June. This timing is crucial as any approved changes would not take effect until November, aligning with the start of a new council member's term in 2026. The council discussed the implications of the proposed 20% increase, which would translate to an additional $21 per week for council members, a figure that some argued was modest given the time commitment required for their roles.

Throughout the discussion, members acknowledged the challenges of balancing fiscal responsibility with fair compensation for public service. Several council members expressed a desire to ensure that any increase would not adversely affect the city’s budget, especially in light of current financial constraints faced by many municipalities.

The consensus among council members was to defer a decision on the compensation increase until after the budget review, allowing for a more informed discussion based on the city's financial health. This approach aims to ensure that any adjustments to compensation are sustainable and do not lead to future budgetary issues.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to responsible governance, with members agreeing to revisit the compensation discussion in June, following the budget workshop. This decision reflects a collective effort to prioritize the city's fiscal stability while also recognizing the contributions of council members.