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Simsbury selectmen approve increase to First Selectman stipend to $15,000 beginning July 2026
Summary
After debate and a failed proposal for a larger jump, the board approved a budget amendment raising the First Selectman's stipend from $10,000 to $15,000 starting July 1, 2026; members said the amount would be revisited in future budget cycles.
Selectmen voted Dec. 4 to increase the annual stipend for the First Selectman from $10,000 (set in 2017) to $15,000 beginning July 1, 2026, to be included in the 2026/27 budget cycle.
Selectman 6 opened the discussion proposing a $35,000 stipend, arguing the time commitment equated to a living wage and that the existing amount is outdated. Several members said the proposed 250–280% increase was too large to enact immediately. "I think 35,000 is too high," one member said; another proposed a more incremental adjustment tied to the budget cycle.
A compromise amendment to set the stipend at $15,000, effective July 1, 2026, was moved and seconded. The board approved the $15,000 amendment by voice vote; members noted the amount can be revisited during future budget cycles and that reimbursements remain available for direct costs incurred by the First Selectman.
The motion specifies the increase be included in the town budget process for the 2026/27 fiscal year; the stipend will remain at $10,000 through June 30, 2026, with the adjusted amount taking effect on July 1, 2026.
