Amid a contentious debate, Tampa City Council members have voted in favor of a hefty $20,000 salary increase. This significant 36% pay rise boosts their earnings to $75,190 starting from October 1, according to FOX 13. The decision was reached after an hour-long discussion during their Thursday meeting, signaling a notable shift in the council's approach to its own compensation.

Before the hike, the annual salary for council members stood at approximately $55,000, as reported by the mayor's office. Proponents of the increase argued that the previous wages were not conducive to those without privileged backgrounds or substantial personal wealth. Councilmember Lynn Hurtak emphasized this point, as echoed in WTSP, suggesting that "a single mother with young children wouldn't be able to live off the current salary."

Despite the board's final decision, not all members were on board with the notion of raising their own salaries. Long-serving member Charlie Miranda expressed concern over the size of the jump, wary of sending the wrong message to Tampa residents facing their own fiscal challenges, as per WTSP. His sentiments resonated with fellow council members Alan Clendenin and Luis Viera, the latter of whom had previously suggested that any decision on raises should be put to a public vote.