Montebello council unanimously approves salary increase and term extension for City Manager Raul Alvarez amid public objections

Montebello — The City Council voted unanimously to approve the first amendment to City Manager Raul Alvarez’s employment agreement, a package that both raises his annual compensation (publicly discussed at the meeting as about $40,000) and extends his contract term.

Residents packed the public comment periods to press councilmembers for clarity and fiscal accountability. "Is this an extension or just a pay raise?" asked Will Severo during the closed‑session public comment period, urging the council to be transparent about the terms. Several other speakers voiced opposition to approving a significant raise while some residents face financial strain. "It's not the right time," said Bill Poliso, referencing local economic pressures.

The city attorney told the council the proposed change was "not only a salary adjustment, but it is also a extension of the contract term," and…