Annapolis considers salary increases for officials and manager

The Annapolis City Council has taken a step toward potentially increasing salaries for the mayor, council members, and the city manager. On Monday, they approved a resolution that accepts recommendations from a committee called the Salary Review Commission. This resolution does not change salaries immediately. It simply acknowledges the committee's findings that current salaries are low compared to those in nearby areas. Alderman Harry Huntley stated that accepting the report does not mean he supports a pay raise for himself. He prefers funds to be used for hiring support staff instead. The Salary Review Commission was created last November to research salaries in 13 neighboring jurisdictions. They interviewed city officials to gather data. The commission suggested higher pay ranges: $120,000 for the mayor, $32,000 for council members, and between $250,000 and $294,000 for the next city manager. During the vote, Alderman DaJuan Gay expressed support for the resolution. However, Rhonda Pindell Charles abstained from voting. She has previously stated that, if elected mayor, she would accept a lower salary and donate the rest to city projects. The council must finalize any changes to salaries three months before the November election. Any increases would take effect with the new council after they are sworn in. The commission believes their recommendations will help attract capable leaders to serve Annapolis in the future.