La Grange Development News

City Council Tables Comprehensive Pay Plan Amid Budget Concerns; Approves Temporary Budget Adjustments and Audit Funding

The city council discussed a proposed personnel and pay classification plan, ordinance number 8 series 2026, which included pay raises for several city employees and a new budget for the fiscal year. The plan, initially developed by the HANA group, underwent adjustments by the personnel committee. Key discussions revolved around the fairness of proposed raises, the sustainability of the budget, and the need for accurate data to support compensation decisions. Concerns were raised about the significant increases proposed for certain individuals, while others argued for fair compensation based on increased responsibilities and market rates. Ultimately, the council voted to table the ordinance indefinitely and decided to proceed with a temporary budget adjustment, including 5% raises for most employees and 6% for police officers, with further decisions on the compensation plan to be made by the new mayor and council in January 2027. Additionally, the council voted to approve $50,000 for contract work to assist with audits and financial reconciliation, aiming to address long-standing financial issues.