Grand Junction residents will vote this April on whether to increase salaries for City Council members and the mayor, a proposal that could reshape the accessibility of local government positions.

Council Votes to Include Salary Increase on Ballot

On February 5, the Grand Junction City Council voted 6-1 to include a measure on the April municipal election ballot that would raise salaries for council members and the mayor. The city’s charter requires voter approval for any salary amendments, and the current pay structure has remained unchanged since 1999.

Mayor Pro Tem Randall Reitz emphasized that the proposed increase would be tied to the Area Median Income (AMI), reflecting the financial realities of the community. According to Reitz, a family of four in Grand Junction earns an average of $94,000 annually.

Addressing Barriers to Public Office

Reitz argues that low salaries discourage diverse candidates from running for office.

“We’re just very worried that by having such a small salary, we’re really putting up obstacles to having a more diverse Council,” he said. “People who would find it hard to run while working full-time or raising kids may be more inclined if salaries align with the cost of living.”

Currently, council members earn $500 per month, while the mayor receives $750. If approved, salaries would adjust to 15% of the AMI for council members and 22% for the mayor.

Economic Ties and Long-Term Impact

Reitz highlighted that the pay structure would fluctuate with the economy.

“If the economy is doing better, there’ll be a slightly higher salary for the Council. Still very small—it wouldn’t be a living income,” he said. “If the economy worsens, our salaries would reflect that as well.”

The salary measure is one of two proposals included in Grand Junction’s General Municipal Election, along with selecting City Council members. If passed, the pay increase would take effect in 2027, benefiting future council members rather than those currently in office.

Encouraging Community Participation

Reitz believes the measure could encourage a wider range of candidates to pursue city government roles.

“I want great people running for office,” he said. “We want the best and brightest, and by making this change, we improve the chances of maintaining the city we love.”

The Grand Junction General Municipal Election is scheduled for April 8, 2025.