There was a time in the not-too-distant past when people in San Luis Obispo who wished to serve in the city government showed some interest by learning about the policies, players, and processes. Some sought appointments to an advisory body, while others attended city meetings, shared opinions, and joined public debate.
Then came the time when some were less interested in serving and more about getting paid. People who had never even been to a City Council meeting or served on an advisory committee were running for office.
The stipend in recognition of one’s efforts displeased those who desired a living wage. And when elected and finding out how much work was involved, they voted to increase their compensation.
There are no time clocks punched when one is a council member. Some do lots of work and some, well, not so much. I averaged 30 hours a week. Some didn’t even bother to read the agendas.
Our City Council members and mayors are treated very well. Statewide conferences are paid for, including travel. Yes, there are free lunches, and sometimes dinners. Now once again, the SLO City Council has voted to adopt new pay rates, awarding far higher salaries than comparably sized cities. For example:
Mayor: San Luis Obispo, $58,368; Santa Cruz, $41,048; Santa Maria, $23,484. Council member: San Luis Obispo, $33,360; Santa Cruz, $20,524; Santa Maria, $20,484.
Christine Mulholland
San Luis Obispo
This article appears in Jan 29 – Feb 5, 2026.
I would imagine my rent is so high is in part because an increasing portion of it goes to the Mayor and council member’s compensation is so bloated…for a measly 30 hours a week.