New York City Council moves to boost pay for mayor, council members by up to 16%

NEW YORK — New York City Council members introduced legislation this week that would increase their own salaries by more than $24,000 and grant Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani a total compensation package approaching $300,000, according to officials and reports.

The bill, sponsored by Councilwoman Nantasha Williams, D-Queens, would raise council members’ base pay from $148,500 to $172,500 starting next term. The hike would also apply to the mayor, public advocate, comptroller and borough presidents.

If enacted, Mamdani — the democratic socialist who won November’s mayoral election on a platform of affordability measures including free buses, rent freezes and city-run grocery stores — would see his total pay rise from the current $258,000 to nearly $300,000 when additional stipends are included.

The last citywide elected officials’ raise took effect in 2016.

Williams said the bill will be formally introduced this week and a public hearing held before year’s end, clearing the way for the newly seated council to vote in January without needing another hearing.

“That’s the goal,” Williams told the New York Post when asked about passage next month.

The proposal comes as Mamdani has pledged to fund expanded social programs largely through higher taxes on wealthy residents and corporations, and to phase in a $30 minimum wage by 2030.

A spokesperson for Mamdani did not immediately respond to requests for comment on whether he would sign or veto the pay-increase legislation.

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