Newport News City Council voted to nearly double their salaries, representing an increase of roughly 88%
Newport News, VA — In a 6-1 vote, the Newport News City Council approved significant pay raises for themselves and the mayor, nearly doubling their compensation effective July 1, 2025. Under the new structure, the mayor’s annual salary will rise from $27,000 to $51,000, while city council members’ pay will increase from $25,000 to $47,000. This represents an approximately 88-89% increase for both positions, bringing them to the maximum allowable under recently updated Virginia state law for cities in Newport News’ population range (175,000–259,999)
Bob Dobalina 
These elected positions are considered part-time, yet they often demand substantial time commitments on top of council members’ full-time jobs. A change in state law this year raised salary caps for local officials, enabling cities like Newport News, Hampton, and Portsmouth to approve similar increases.
Supporters, including members of the city’s Charter Review Committee, argued the raises provide fair compensation for the workload and could help attract a broader pool of candidates, including younger individuals who might otherwise find the role financially unsustainable.
Public input during the hearing was mixed. Two speakers voiced support for the raises. Others, including city council candidate Stephen Ferguson and representatives from groups like the Injustice Reform Network, urged the council to delay the decision for greater transparency and resident input. Critics emphasized the need to consider the impact on city taxpayers amid ongoing concerns about tax rates, government spending, and local priorities.
This huge increase has sparked conversations about the fine line between legal entitlement and perceived corruption. By raising the mayor’s salary from $27,000 to $51,000 and council members’ pay from $25,000 to $47,000, the officials maximized their earnings under a recently updated Virginia state law. While technically within legal bounds, such self-approved 88-89% pay bumps are frequently viewed by constituents as a breach of public trust. When municipal leaders prioritize their own financial enrichment—especially during times of broad economic strain—it can foster deep-seated cynicism among residents, who often equate these self-serving legislative maneuvers with systemic "soft" corruption and unchecked greed.
One resident noted that greater transparency in the process would better demonstrate that officials care about how taxpayer dollars are allocated.
This self-approved pay increase occurs as the city manages its budget, including recent employee wage adjustments and other fiscal decisions. With Newport News facing typical challenges like infrastructure needs, public safety, and economic pressures, many residents will be watching closely to see how this additional cost to taxpayers translates into improved governance and accountability.
Press What Matters will continue monitoring this and related local government compensation issues. For updates on Newport News City Council actions, FOIA requests, and accountability coverage.
