Waukesha council approves 4% raise and one‑time 4% bonus for city administrator in 7–6 vote

The Waukesha City Common Council voted 7–6 on March 3 to raise the city administrator’s base salary by 4%, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2026, and to grant a one‑time performance bonus equal to 4% of the administrator’s 2025 base salary.

The council discussed the administrator’s annual performance in a closed session called under Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(c). After the meeting returned to open session, a council member moved the compensation package and the motion was seconded. The mayor cautioned that a member appearing by Zoom would not be counted if the council could not hear them.

Why it matters: the action increases ongoing payroll costs and includes a one‑time payout. Several council members spoke against the bonus portion of the package, framing it as a new practice for city employees.

Alderman Dean Lemke said on the record, “I just wanted on the record that I'm not in favor of the bonus, so I'll be noting I will be voting no today.” Another council member added, “I'm against bonuses as all city employees don't get bonuses,” explaining a concern about establishing a new precedent even while supporting a larger base raise.

The clerk recorded Alvin Slavin and Rick Lemke as voting no; Dean Lemke stated he would vote no. The motion passed by a 7–6 margin.

The mayor and staff did not provide additional fiscal detail during the meeting about the long‑term budgetary impact; the council did state the bonus would be calculated on the 2025 base salary and that the raise is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2026. Matthews, who had been attending via Zoom earlier, experienced audio/connection issues and the mayor said his vote could not be counted if the council could not hear him.

The council adjourned immediately after the vote. There was no further scheduling announced for follow‑up on this matter at the meeting.