The Colton City Council has approved an ordinance raising council and mayor pay to $1,600 a month — more than double the current total compensation — after two 3–2 votes and weeks of debate over parity with other cities, fairness to staff and public perception.
The increase, adopted Nov. 18 as Ordinance No. O-11-25, will not take effect until after Colton’s next regular municipal election on Nov. 3, 2026. It replaces the current structure of a $440 monthly salary plus a $242 automobile allowance — a total of $682 per month per elected official — with a single $1,600 monthly salary for each council member and the mayor.
Both on Nov. 4, when the council directed staff to draft the ordinance, and again on Nov. 18, when it passed the first reading, the vote was 3–2. Mayor Frank Navarro and Councilmember Dr. G opposed the increase both times…