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Members of the Ulster County Legislature have voted to increase their salaries, with most lawmakers now earning $18,000 annually, up from the previous $16,000. The majority and minority leaders will see their pay rise by $2,000 to $20,000 per year. These raises, effective immediately, will add $46,000 to the county's $400 million budget.
The decision, made on Tuesday (February 18), follows a proposal introduced by Legislator Jeff Collins of Woodstock. The proposal aimed to attract more candidates to public service by offering higher compensation, as reported by Hudson Valley One. The pay increases range from 9.6% for the Legislature chairman to 12.5% for rank-and-file members, with the majority and minority leaders receiving an 11.1% increase.
The resolution passed with 13 votes in favor and eight against, despite some opposition. Critics argue that the timing is problematic, given the rising costs of living faced by many county residents. However, supporters, including Minority Leader Kevin Roberts, emphasize that the part-time roles often demand full-time responsibilities.
The pay raises were part of a broader budgetary allocation approved in December, which set aside $57,520 for this purpose. The raises follow a previous increase of $2,000 to $3,500 for county legislators in 2023. A public hearing on the proposal is scheduled for March 18.