Council weighs lifting restriction on salary‑commission timing, directs staff to return with options

Councilmembers debated whether to remove a code restriction that limits calling a salary commission to even‑numbered years. No formal action was taken; council directed staff to prepare a future agenda item that outlines state law, options for checks and balances and potential implications of calling a salary commission more frequently.

The current code, as described at the meeting, allows the mayor discretion to call a salary commission only in even‑numbered years. Councilmembers who supported revisiting the rule said lifting the restriction would give future mayors flexibility to respond to unusual economic conditions, such as high inflation years. Other members cautioned that a salary commission is a significant staff and public process—compensation studies involve multiple staff and public hearings—and warned against calling commissions too frequently.

Councilmember Manke (who previously served on a salary commission) said the commission already has the authority to recommend COLA, benefits and other compensation elements and that the every‑other‑year schedule reduces staff burden. Councilmember Kurt asked staff to return with recommendations on checks and balances, including parameters on commission scope and staff time. The city manager noted the commission in the last cycle did adopt a $400 per month low‑income supplement for councilors with household income below 80% of area median income.

The council requested a future agenda item that summarizes state law, compares local practices in nearby jurisdictions, and outlines options for scheduling and directing a salary commission.