New York City, December 1, 2025
The New York City Council has introduced legislation to raise salaries for elected officials by 16%, aiming to boost compensation for the mayor, council members, and other key positions. This proposal could increase council member salaries from $148,500 to $172,500 and the mayor’s salary to about $300,000. The raises, aimed for implementation in 2026, have sparked public debate regarding their timing and legality.
New York City Council Proposes Significant Salary Increases for Elected Officials
New York City Council members have introduced legislation proposing a 16% salary increase for elected city officials, including the mayor, public advocate, comptroller, borough presidents, and city council members. This proposal aims to raise council members’ salaries from $148,500 to $172,500, with similar increases for other officials, potentially bringing the mayor’s salary to nearly $300,000.
Details of the Proposed Legislation
The bill, introduced by Councilwoman Nantasha Williams, seeks to adjust compensation for various city officials as follows:
- City Council Members: Increase from $148,500 to $172,500.
- Mayor: Increase from $258,750 to approximately $300,000.
- Public Advocate: Increase from $184,800 to $214,800.
- Comptroller: Increase from $209,050 to $242,500.
- Borough Presidents: Increase from $179,200 to $207,200.
The proposed raises are intended to take effect for the incoming municipal term, starting January 1, 2026. A public hearing is scheduled before the end of the year, with a council vote anticipated in January. If approved, the new compensation rates would apply to the incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, and other officials.
Context and Reactions
This proposal follows a previous pay increase in 2016, when council members’ salaries were raised from $112,500 to $148,500. The current proposal has sparked debate among government watchdogs and the public. Critics argue that the timing of the raise, introduced during a lame-duck period, may violate local law, which prohibits salary increases for elected officials after Election Day in a local election year. As a result, the council has postponed the vote until January 2026 to comply with legal requirements.
Supporters of the raise contend that the increase is necessary to attract and retain qualified individuals for public service roles, ensuring effective governance. They also point out that the proposed legislation includes reforms such as eliminating bonuses for committee chairs and restricting outside income, aiming to make the positions full-time and reduce potential conflicts of interest.
Background on Councilwoman Nantasha Williams
Nantasha Williams, a Democrat from Queens, has been serving as a city council member since 2022. She was re-elected unchallenged in the 2025 New York City Council election for District 27. Williams has been active in advocating for community improvements and has secured funding for various local projects, including playground renovations and library upgrades. Her proposal for salary increases reflects her commitment to enhancing the city’s governance and public service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the proposed salary increase for New York City Council members?
The proposed legislation aims to increase council members’ salaries from $148,500 to $172,500, representing a 16% raise.
When would the proposed salary increases take effect?
If approved, the new compensation rates would take effect for the incoming municipal term, starting January 1, 2026.
Why has the council postponed the vote on the salary increase?
The council postponed the vote to comply with local laws that prohibit salary increases for elected officials after Election Day in a local election year, ensuring the process is legally sound.
What reforms are included in the proposed legislation?
The legislation includes reforms such as eliminating bonuses for committee chairs and restricting outside income, aiming to make council positions full-time and reduce potential conflicts of interest.
Who is Councilwoman Nantasha Williams?
Nantasha Williams is a Democrat from Queens, serving as a city council member since 2022. She was re-elected unchallenged in the 2025 New York City Council election for District 27 and has been active in advocating for community improvements.
Key Features of the Proposed Salary Increases
| Official | Current Salary | Proposed Salary | Percentage Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Council Members | $148,500 | $172,500 | 16% |
| Mayor | $258,750 | ~$300,000 | ~16% |
| Public Advocate | $184,800 | $214,800 | 16% |
| Comptroller | $209,050 | $242,500 | 16% |
| Borough Presidents | $179,200 | $207,200 | 16% |
Now Happening on X
- @fabi_gold (November 27, 2025): The proposed bill would raise council members’ salaries from $148,500 to $172,500, marking their first increase in nearly a decade, but critics question its timing amid affordability pushes. View on X
- @TheJewishAlly (November 26, 2025): Highlights hypocrisy in socialism as NYC elected officials push for a 16% pay raise while others like NYPD and teachers do not receive similar increases. View on X
- @createcraig (November 25, 2025): Councilwoman Nantasha Williams plans to introduce a bill for a 16% pay bump to $172,500 for council members, with a hearing by year-end and vote in January. View on X
- @Patriot_Deanna (November 25, 2025): A bill by Councilwoman Nantasha Williams would increase city council salaries from $148,500 to $172,500, applying to top officials including incoming mayor Zohran Mamdani at $300,000. View on X
- @helen44767171 (November 26, 2025): NYC Council proposes a 16% salary increase ahead of Zohran Mamdani’s term, raising council pay from current levels to benefit incoming officials starting January 1. View on X
- @Maat93489673 (November 26, 2025): The bill would dramatically raise salaries for city officials, including council members to $172,500, with a January vote, but it’s seen as a poor start given the shrinking tax base. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New York City Airports Manage Thanksgiving Travel Surge with Minimal Delays
New York City Council Proposes Salary Increases for Officials
Jersey City Mayoral Runoff Features McGreevey and Solomon
New York City Mayor’s Salary: A Closer Look
New York City Council Passes Pay Equity Legislation
New York City Council Passes Bills to Address Wage Disparities
New York City Nonprofit Executives See Salary Increases
Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop to Lead Partnership for New York City
Resorts World NYC Secures Approval for Major Expansion
New York City Business Groups Oppose Job Posting Disclosure Bill
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
