Bellingham Voters to Decide on Mayor's Salary Structure

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  Bellingham voters will decide in November on a charter amendment“Bellingham voters in the November election will have a say over how the mayor is paid going forward, as the city attempts to remedy an unusual, and increasingly expensive, feature of its charter.”
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  The charter amendment would change how the mayor's salary is determined“Voters in November will consider a charter amendment that says the mayor's salary will instead be set by an independent commission.”
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  The current city charter requires the mayor to be the highest-paid city employee“The city charter, drafted by freeholders in 1972, outlines the city government’s structure, powers and responsibilities. The document specifies that the mayor’s salary should never be lower than that of the highest-paid city employee or official.”
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  Mayor Kim Lund's salary is $237,000 annually“Mayor Kim Lund makes just under $237,000 per year plus an additional $49,128 in benefits.”
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  Mayor Kim Lund's salary includes $49,128 in benefits“Mayor Kim Lund makes just under $237,000 per year plus an additional $49,128 in benefits.”
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  The amendment would establish an independent commission to set the mayor's salary“Voters in November will consider a charter amendment that says the mayor's salary will instead be set by an independent commission.”
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  City employee compensation has increased 42% since 2022No usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  Total wages for city employees have reached $133 millionNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  Nearly 40 employees earn over $200,000 annuallyNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.