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NYC Council’s 16% pay raise proposal faces legal and political backlash

Eight years without a raise—but is now the right time? Critics argue the timing violates election-year rules, while supporters push for fairness.

, and Administrator

2025 November 27 . 1:05 AM

1 min read

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NYC Council’s 16% pay raise proposal faces legal and political backlash

A proposed 16% salary hike for New York City Council members has sparked debate over its legality. Councilwoman Nantasha Williams (D-Queens) put forward the plan, which would raise pay from £116,000 to £132,000 starting January 2024. The increase would also apply to the mayor, city comptroller, public advocate, and five borough presidents.

The last pay rise for council members came in 2016, adding £28,000 to their annual salaries. Since then, no further adjustments have been made. However, the City Charter appears to block such a move, barring council votes on pay increases between election day and December 31 in an election year.

The proposed pay rise faces strong legal and political hurdles. If passed, it would mark the first salary increase for council members in eight years. Mamdani’s planned veto would halt the measure unless supporters secure enough votes to override it.