Bethlehem council approves raises for controller, mayor and some council seats after heated public debate

City Council on Feb. 27 approved ordinances to raise pay for the city controller and the mayor and to change the compensation for council members, setting new rates that would take effect for officials sworn into office in 2026.

The council voted 4-3 to approve an ordinance changing council compensation, 6-1 to raise the controller's salary and 5-2 to raise the mayor's salary. Councilwoman Theresa Wilhelm, who sponsored the package, acknowledged the awkward optics of elected officials changing pay but said the increases are intended to broaden who can afford to run for office.

"Just because it's uncomfortable doesn't mean it's not the right thing to do," Wilhelm said in opening the discussion. She and supporters said the council stipend has not risen in about 16 years and that a modest increase would make civic office accessible to people who cannot otherwise afford the time and expense of public service.

Opponents — including several members of the public who brought petitions or…