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ITEM: ORDINANCE NO. 2026-10 (ORDINANCE INCREASING COUNCIL SALARY)
AN ORDINANCE OF WELLINGTON, FLORIDA’S COUNCIL INCREASING THE COUNCIL COMPENSATION, AS PERMITTED BY WELLINGTON’S CHARTER, AND AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE II, SECTION 2-16 (SALARY ADDITIVE OF COUNCIL MEMBERS EFFECTIVE APRIL 1, 2004) OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
REQUEST: Consideration on second reading of Ordinance No. 2026-10 increasing Council compensation.
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EXPLANATION: Wellington’s Charter initially provided for Council compensation in the amount of $300 per month. In 2003, Council approved a salary additive in the amount of $542.00 for the Mayor and $500 for each Council member, which became effective on April 1, 2004. There has been no increase in Council compensation since that time. During the ensuing 22 years, the population of Wellington and the responsibilities of the Village Council members has increased dramatically, together with the expenses associated with attending to official business. Most other municipalities in Palm Beach County provide compensation to their elected officials that substantially exceeds the amount paid to Wellington’s elected officials. Staff believes an increase in Council salaries is ripe for consideration. Any such increase would take effect following commencement of the terms of the new Council on April 14, 2026.
BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: NO
PUBLIC HEARING: YES QUASI-JUDICIAL: NO
FIRST READING: SECOND READING: YES
LEGAL SUFFICIENCY: YES
FISCAL IMPACT: Funds are included in the approved FY2026 budget.
WELLINGTON FUNDAMENTAL: Responsive Government
RECOMMENDATION: Consideration on second reading of Ordinance No. 2026-10 increasing Council compensation.