WINONA, Minn. — City Council members voted 5-2 to raise their own salaries for the first time in six years. Effective in January the salaries become:
> Mayor: $14,500 a year, up from $10,780.
> Council members: $9,500, up from $7,700.
The new rates will be delayed for some members until after their terms expire and they are re-elected or replaced. Arguments pro and con followed the usual agonizing over appearing self-serving and keeping salaries sufficient to attract worthy but not necessarily well-heeled candidates in the future. A framework for the debate included data that Winona salaries are less than similar communities. It was noted too that Winona County Board members earn twice as much — $24,200 annually. When fully implemented, the Council raises will together cost the city $14,500. In coming weeks, the Council will turn to deciding compensation for city employees. How Council members voted on their salaries:
For raises
Jerome Christenson (at large)
Jason Dicus (at large)
Jeff Hyma (2nd Ward, West Side)
Scott Sherman (mayor)
Sam Zierden Shortridge (3rd Ward, downtown)
Against
George Borzyskowski (4th Ward, East End)
Steve Young (1st Ward, West End)