Council approves first reading of 2026 pay plan ordinance, sets public hearing Dec. 3

City staff presented Ordinance No. 25-2025 on Nov. 19 and said it contains three primary changes to the 2026 pay plan: alignment of certain positions with a 2.4% state minimum-wage increase; placement of five full-time employees who will transfer to city employment from the Center for Restorative Programs into appropriate pay grades while maintaining their current pay; and final adjustments for succession planning at the city’s water and wastewater treatment plants so operators obtain required certificates.

Staff said the 2026 budget did not include funding for a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Councilor Hensley moved to approve the ordinance on first reading and set a public hearing for Dec. 3; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously.

The measure moves forward to the public hearing where councilors and members of the public can comment before second reading and final action.