The City of San Luis Obispo wants to know if a stipend would influence decisions to serve on an Advisory Body to the City Council.
Take this brief survey before October 24, 2025 at 5 p.m. to help them better understand what would encourage people to get involved and what might make it easier for them to participate.
The survey has just four questions and will help the City’s 2026 Council Compensation Committee understand how factors like compensation or other barriers may influence someone’s decision to apply.
For the first time in six years, the City Council formed a Council Compensation Committee. This summer, the Council selected seven community members to serve on the committee to evaluate and recommend compensation for the roles of Mayor, City Council Member, Planning Commissioner and Architectural Review Commissioner. The Council also directed the 2026 Council Compensation Committee to evaluate and recommend whether to pay stipends for those who serve on other Advisory Bodies.
The 2026 Council Compensation Committee has already met publicly twice and will continue meeting regularly to recommend changes to compensation in the spring of 2026. Any adopted changes will take effect in January 2027 for the next two-year period.
Currently, the Mayor is paid $2,923 monthly and Council Members are paid $2,319 monthly. Planning Commissioners and Architectural Review Commissioners are paid $86 per meeting. Compensation for the Mayor and City Council is reviewed biennially in even-numbered years, according to the City Charter. Since 2022, the City Council has opted to approve Consumer Price Index (CPI) compensation increases instead of forming a Council Compensation Committee.
The City recognizes the significant time, preparation and responsibility these public service roles require. Modest compensation helps ensure that community members from a variety of backgrounds can afford to participate in local government decision-making, not just those with flexible schedules or independent means.
By offering modest compensation, the City supports fair access, values public service as meaningful work and upholds a professional standard of accountability and commitment in serving the community.
To take the survey, or for more public input opportunities, visit Open City Hall.