Rochester Lawmakers Split on Council Pay Increase

Written by on December 18, 2025

The Rochester City Council voted 5–4 to raise council member salaries from about $41,400 to $50,000. 

Supporters said the job is effectively full-time and the increase is needed for equity, while opponents criticized the size of the raise and lack of public input. 

Council President Miguel Melendez declined the raise.

Rochester City Council votes to give themselves 25% raise


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