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Ashland commission approves hybrid pay increase: 2% or $1,000 minimum
Summary
After debate about equity and legacy costs, the Ashland Board approved a hybrid employee pay increase — 2% across the board with a $1,000 minimum — and asked staff to monitor long-term compensation impacts.
The Ashland Board of City Commissioners voted May 20 to approve a hybrid pay increase for city employees that provides 2% raises with a $1,000 minimum for eligible staff.
Why it matters: Commissioners debated whether a flat $1,000 increase or a percentage-based approach was fairer. Advocates for the hybrid plan argued it helps lower-paid employees while acknowledging long-term legacy cost concerns tied to percentage increases.
Discussion highlights Commissioner Renfro said he was concerned about the widening gap between high and low earners and preferred a flat approach; other commissioners, after discussion with staff and employees, favored the hybrid plan as the fairest compromise. One commissioner noted the city’s minimum hourly rate is $16.73 and emphasized rising market pressure for licensed water and sewer operators.
Motion and outcome A motion to approve the hybrid option (2% with a $1,000 minimum) was moved and seconded and carried on a voice vote. Commissioners asked staff to continue reviewing pay scales, perform market comparisons for new hires and consider performance-based raises in the future.
Next steps Staff will track implementation impacts on legacy pension-related costs and return to the commission if additional adjustments are necessary.
Source: Discussion and voice vote at the Ashland Board recessed meeting on May 20, 2026.
