Title
Approval of a Resolution Appointing Paul Horton to Serve on the Independent Salary Commission
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve a resolution appointing Paul Horton to the Independent Salary Commission as proposed by the Mayor.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve a resolution appointing Paul Horton to the Independent Salary Commission as proposed by the Mayor.
Staff Contact:
Manny Bosser, Human Resources Director, 360.753.8309
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar
Background and Analysis:
In July 2017 City Council passed Ordinance 7089, in accordance with RCW 35.21.015 to create an Independent Salary Commission to review and establish the salaries for all seven members of the City Council. Members appointed to the Independent Salary Commission serve a two-year term and can serve two consecutive terms. They do not receive compensation for serving on the Commission.
Olympia’s Independent Salary Commission is a group of five City residents appointed by the Mayor and approved by Council. They last met in 2025. Commissioner Parfait Bassale stepped down from the Commission in February. The new Commissioner will serve from appointment date to July 8, 2027.
Mayor Payne solicited names from other Councilmembers and community leaders. Based on availability, diversity of experience and interest in serving, the Mayor is recommending Paul Horton as the new Salary Commissioner.
Climate Analysis:
The project is not expected to have an impact on climate.
Equity Analysis:
Mayor Payne solicited names from other Councilmembers and community leaders to identify persons with a diversity of experience and interest in serving on the Independent Salary Commission. The appointment of a commissioner to the vacant position on the Independent Salary Commission will ensure a diversity of experience and contributions.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Mayor Payne solicited names from other Councilmembers and community leaders to identify persons living in Olympia to serve on the Independent Salary Commission to represent the community.
Options:
1. Approve a resolution appointing Paul Horton to the Independent Salary Commission as proposed by the Mayor.
2. Do not approve a resolution appointing Paul Horton to the Independent Salary Commission as proposed by the Mayor. The Salary Commission will continue with four Commissioners instead of the five required in Ordinance 7089.
3. Recommend other candidates and direct staff to update the resolution and return to Council for consideration at a future meeting, delaying Salary Commission meetings.
Financial Impact:
There is no expected financial impact with the appointment of a new commissioner.
Attachments:
Resolution
Ordinance