Bloomington City Council Approves Salary Increases

The Bloomington City Council voted 7-1 to increase council members' salaries to $25,000 for 2025, following significant public pushback against an initial proposal that sought a 115% raise. The increase marks an 18% raise from the current salary of $21,153, while the mayor's and city clerk's salaries will also see modest increases. Council members acknowledged the need for better remuneration to attract a more diverse group of candidates, though the decision to raise their pay was met with mixed feelings about self-serving implications. Mayor Kerry Thomson had previously expressed intentions to veto any substantial salary increases beyond a standard cost of living adjustment. The finalization of the new salaries hinges on the mayor's approval of the ordinance, which is expected to cost the city approximately $45,972.92 in total.