Auburn Council Proposes Salary Increase Ahead of 2026 Election

Auburn City Council members are considering a significant salary increase for future council members, marking the first adjustment in nearly two decades. During the meeting on July 8, 2025, a proposal was put forth to raise council salaries from the current $7,200 to $15,000 annually, with the Mayor Pro Tem position receiving $18,000 due to its additional responsibilities.

The proposal stems from a comprehensive review of compensation across Alabama's major cities, revealing that Auburn's current council salary is considerably lower than the average of $17,122 for similar-sized municipalities. The last salary adjustment occurred in February 2006, a time when Auburn's population was approximately 50,000. Today, that number has surged to around 85,000, highlighting the increased demands on council members as the city has grown.

Supporters of the increase argue that the responsibilities of council members have expanded significantly, necessitating a reevaluation of their compensation. They noted that the increase could also encourage a more diverse pool of candidates for future elections, making the role more accessible to individuals who may not have the financial means to serve.

However, not all council members are in favor of the proposed raise. Some expressed concerns that compensation should not be the primary motivation for serving in public office, emphasizing a commitment to community service over financial gain. They argue that Auburn's unique character and the dedication of its elected officials should not be measured against the salaries of other cities.

The council is expected to vote on the proposal, which would only take effect for the incoming council elected in August 2026. Discussions also included the need for a mechanism to ensure that council salaries are reviewed more regularly in the future, preventing another lengthy gap before potential adjustments. As the city continues to grow, the outcome of this proposal could have lasting implications for how Auburn attracts and retains its elected officials.