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Cottage Grove renews municipal judge contract and awards 5% merit increase to city manager
Summary
Council unanimously renewed the municipal court judge's one-year contract and approved a 5% merit increase for City Manager Mike Sauerwein, foregoing a proposed 3% cost-of-living adjustment after council discussion of budget constraints.
The council approved two personnel-related actions during the meeting: renewal of the municipal court judge’s contract and a compensation adjustment for the city manager.
Judge contract: City staff recommended renewal of the municipal court judge’s one-year contract after the council reviewed the judge’s performance in executive session. City Manager Mike Sauerwein said staff recommends renewal and authorization for the mayor to sign the contract. Councilor Levin moved and the council approved the renewal unanimously.
City manager compensation: The council considered the city manager’s request for a 3% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and a 5% merit increase, both to take effect on Jan. 22. Councilors discussed budget pressures and whether a COLA was appropriate given current fiscal conditions; several members expressed support for merit pay but hesitancy on a COLA. Councilor Irvin moved to amend the motion to approve the 5% merit increase and forego the 3% COLA. The amendment was seconded and the revised motion passed unanimously. City Manager Sauerwein said he appreciated the council’s support.
Both actions were adopted by roll-call vote; staff indicated there were no contract constraints preventing the adjustments.
