ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Ithaca is looking at lawmaker salaries.

On October 3, Mayor Robert Cantelmo announced the creation of the Elected Officials Compensation Review Advisory Committee.

The group will be tasked with reviewing and recommending compensation for Ithaca Common Council members and the mayor.

“Decisions about elected official compensation should never be made behind closed doors or based solely on self-interest,” said Cantelmo. “By bringing in a diverse, community-driven committee to study this issue, we can build public trust, align with best practices, and ensure fair, transparent outcomes.”

The 5-person committee includes two alderpersons and representatives from the Tompkins County Workers Center (TCWC), Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS), and the Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA).

“Compensation for elected officials is about more than a paycheck,” added Cantelmo. “It’s about accountability, accessibility, and ensuring that public service is open to residents from all walks of life. I look forward to receiving the committee’s recommendations and engaging with the community around their work.”

Before completing its report, the advisory committee will hold at least one public hearing to allow residents to weigh in.

Committee Members

  • Alderperson Patrick Kuehl (Chair, ex officio, non-voting)
  • Alderperson Pierre Saint-Perez (ex officio, non-voting)
  • Kate de la Garza, INHS
  • Adam Hart, TCWC
  • Megan Vidler, DIA