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Florence council approves 3% midyear pay increase for eligible employees
Summary
Council adopted Resolution 1980‑25 to grant a 3% midyear base pay increase for eligible employees, effective the pay period including Jan. 1, 2026; council cited budget constraints and recommended the percentage that benefits the most employees.
The Florence Town Council voted to approve a 3% midyear pay increase for eligible full‑time and regular part‑time employees under Resolution 1980‑25, effective the pay period that includes Jan. 1, 2026.
HR staff (Miss Wilson) summarized options and asked council to indicate whether they wanted a percentage, a percentage plus a one‑time stipend, or another arrangement. Town Manager Walls framed the proposal by listing recent operational accomplishments and recommended either a 3% or 4% increase. "It is my hope that council rewards our employees with either a 3 or a 4% increase," Walls said.
Council members debated affordability amid tight budgets, declining HEERF funds and an anticipated revenue loss from Santan incorporation. The budget committee recommended a 3% option as the best fit for the most employees. Councilmember Bucielato said she would prefer a larger raise if possible but supported 3% as a practical compromise: "If I could give you guys 10%, I would... I am okay with 3. I would be okay with 4%." Councilmember Benzina and others described the town’s fiscal constraints and supported 3%.
Vice Mayor Adam moved to approve a 3% increase; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. One councilmember asked for a roll call but the mayor used a voice vote after members expressed agreement. HR staff said they will pursue benefit‑cost strategies with a consultant to contain next year’s insurance costs and return with further information.
Next steps: HR and finance will implement the increase per the effective date in the council action form and continue strategic work on benefits to help contain future costs.
