During a contentious meeting Monday, the Manassas City Council deliberated a proposed salary increase for councilmembers and the mayor, ultimately approving a compromise that sparked discussions about public service, community needs and representation.

The approved measure increases the mayor’s salary to $37,000 and the councilmembers’ rate to $34,000, up from $20,000 and $18,000.

The measure passed 4-2, with Theresa Coates Ellis and Ralph Smith opposing. The new salaries will take effect July 1, 2027, following the next City Council election.

The debate highlighted deeper questions about the nature of civil service, municipal governance and economic accessibility. Supporters argued the increase would make council service more inclusive, while opponents stressed the importance of fiscal

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