Key takeaways

• The new bill would lift mayor, speaker, and council pay starting next term
• Mayor’s salary jumps from $258,000 to $300,500 per year
• Speaker’s pay rises to $191,000, up from $164,000 annually
• Other council members would see salaries climb from $148,000 to $172,500
• Supporters say higher pay boosts talent; critics worry about budget impact

A new proposal would boost council salaries across the board. Under the plan, the mayor’s pay jumps by more than $42,000. Meanwhile, the council speaker and all members also get pay raises. This change would take effect at the start of the next term. It aims to attract skilled leaders and reflect the city’s growth. However, some worry about how the extra cost will affect taxpayers.

City leaders play a key role in budgets and policies. As a result, supporters say better pay will draw talented people. On the other hand, opponents argue the city faces many funding needs. Consequently, they question whether higher salaries are wise now.

New Council Salaries Figures for Mayor and Council

Under the bill, the top pay for the mayor would reach $300,500 each year. Today, the position earns $258,000 annually. That change marks a 16 percent rise in mayor pay. In addition, the council speaker would earn $191,000 instead of $164,000. All other council members would see their salaries move from $148,000 to $172,500.

These new figures would make local government pay more competitive. For example, peer cities already offer higher council salaries. Moreover, leaders believe this will encourage long-term public service careers. They note that complex city issues need well-paid experts, not those who must work extra jobs.

Why the Council Salaries Rise Matters

First, the council salaries increase may reduce turnover among leaders. Currently, many members leave after one or two terms. Low pay can force them to choose private jobs. With better salaries, the city can keep experienced people in office. This stability can speed up long-term projects.

Second, higher pay could improve decision making. Council members often juggle multiple roles. When they earn more from official jobs, they focus solely on city issues. As a result, they can research policies deeply and spend more time meeting residents.

Third, the pay raise sends a message about the city’s priorities. It shows that the community values public service and wants to attract skilled planners. In addition, it signals that the city expects high performance from its leaders.

However, critics point out the budget impact. The extra cost for all offices adds up to millions over each term. In tough economic times, they argue funds should go to services like schools, roads, and parks. Opponents also worry about setting a pattern for future raises.

What’s Next After the Pay Rise?

If the bill passes, the new council salaries will kick in when the next terms begin. That means voters will soon see candidates running on promises tied to the raise. Some candidates will highlight it as a step toward better city management. Others will oppose it, pledging to seek cuts or freeze salaries.

In the meantime, the council will hold public hearings. Residents can share their views on whether the raise is fair. City watchdog groups plan to offer data on budget trade-offs. They will point out how much money could go to other priorities instead.

Additionally, the mayor must sign the bill before it becomes law. If the mayor vetoes it, the council can still override that veto by a supermajority vote. Either way, debate will continue at community forums and city hall.

Ultimately, this pay raise discussion ties into larger questions. How much should public service pay reflect private-sector rates? What trade-offs do voters accept when they fund their government? As the debate unfolds, the council salaries increase remains at its center.

FAQs

How much will the mayor earn after the raise?

The mayor’s salary jumps from $258,000 to $300,500 per year under the proposed bill.

When would the new council salaries take effect?

The new pay rates would start at the beginning of the next council and mayoral terms.

Why do supporters back the pay increase?

Supporters say better pay attracts and retains skilled leaders and lets them focus fully on city issues.

What are the biggest concerns about the salary boost?

Critics worry about the added cost to taxpayers and argue funds could better support public services. Source: https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/12/03/nyc-council-presses-on-with-pay-raise-effort-despite-silence-from-mamdani-menin/