During the Troutdale City Council meeting on June 26, 2025, council members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the salary for the new city manager, reflecting the council's commitment to attracting qualified leadership while balancing budgetary constraints.

The council considered a salary range for the new city manager, with suggestions varying from $180,000 to $190,000. Members emphasized the importance of offering a competitive salary to ensure the candidate feels valued and motivated to transition from a smaller city to Troutdale, which presents expanded responsibilities. One council member noted that a typical salary increase for such a move is around 10%, which informed their calculations.

The conversation highlighted the need for flexibility in the salary offer, with some members advocating for an initial offer of $180,000, allowing room for future adjustments based on performance. The council also discussed the potential for an annual review of the salary, which would provide an opportunity to reassess compensation after the new manager has settled into the role.

In addition to salary considerations, the council touched on the benefits package, noting that Troutdale does not intend to replicate certain perks offered by the candidate's previous employer, such as a car stipend. Instead, the focus remains on establishing a fair and motivating compensation structure that aligns with the city's budget and goals.

As the council moves forward, the discussions from this meeting will play a crucial role in shaping the future leadership of Troutdale, ensuring that the city is well-positioned to meet the needs of its residents. The council's commitment to a thorough and thoughtful hiring process reflects its dedication to fostering effective governance and community engagement.