The Milpitas City Council held a regular meeting on September 2, 2025, focusing on the topic of city council salaries in accordance with California government code. Assistant City Manager Matt Cano presented a detailed overview of the current salary structure and potential adjustments.

Cano began by providing historical context, noting that the city council had previously reduced salaries by 6% in July 2010 and by an additional 10% in 2012 due to economic conditions. A slight restoration occurred in February 2014, but salaries have remained unchanged since then. Currently, the mayor earns $13,569 annually, while each city council member receives $10,852.44.

The discussion highlighted a recent change in California law effective January 1, 2024, which allows for salary increases based on population. For Milpitas, this means the mayor and city council could potentially earn a base salary of $22,800 per year. Additionally, the mayor may receive an allowance with no defined limit, which could take effect immediately or after the next election in November 2026.

Cano presented several options for salary adjustments for the council's consideration. The first option proposes setting all council members at the maximum salary allowed under the new law. Other options include a 3% annual increase since 2014, a variable approach, and a proposal that would grant the mayor an additional $5,000 to recognize their extra responsibilities.

The council was invited to provide feedback on these options, with the intention of returning to a future meeting with a draft ordinance for any approved changes. The meeting concluded with a call for direction from the council regarding the preferred approach to salary adjustments.