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Newell council approves 4.25% wage increase for full‑time city employees after split vote
Summary
The Newell City Council approved a 4.25% wage increase for full‑time personnel on Jan. 5, 2026. The measure passed with three ayes and two nays, reflecting differing views among council members on compensation levels.
The Newell City Council voted Jan. 5 to approve a 4.25% wage increase for full‑time city employees. The motion was made by Councilmember Quinten Robinson and seconded by Councilmember Steve Taylor. The roll call vote recorded ayes from Robinson, Taylor and Bill Henrich and nays from Larry Nielsen and Dennis Ziegler; the motion passed.
During the discussion council members emphasized employee longevity, retention and the value of the city’s insurance benefits when assessing competitive wages. Council also discussed golf course contracts and the need to finalize start dates and pay protections for seasonal staff; council agreed to revisit golf‑course contract language at a Jan. 7, 2026 special session.
Clerk Heather Copp recorded the roll call vote in the minutes. Council did not provide an exact cost estimate in the meeting minutes; the budget impact was discussed as part of ongoing budget work set for a Jan. 7 budget meeting.
