City Manager Harold Dominguez and two other top city officials earned pay hikes from the City Council this week and compensating the trio at least 101% of market in an effort to keep them on the city payroll. The raises will go into effect in January.
Dominguez especially earned praises from the city council for his work in leading the city over the past 10 years. Councilors said they could not afford to lose him, as well as City Attorney Eugene Mei and Municipal Judge Robert Frick, to another city, So they opted to pay them above market value.
“The worst and last thing we need to do is look for a new city manager,” Councilor Tim Waters told the councilors after they unanimously approved the compensation package for Dominguez. “What an asset you are for the city,” Waters told Domiguez. “You're worth every penny.”
Dominguez, who made $270,107 in base compensation this year, received a boost of $19,069 through a 6% pay raise including a 1% hike in exceptional pay which is based on performance. He will make $289,176 in 2023 as well as receiving a $20,000 retention bonus. Dominguez will have to pay back the retention bonus should he leave the city before Dec. 31, 2024.
Dominguez got a $40,000 retention bonus last year from the council, which he will have to pay back if he resigns before the end of next year.
Mayor Joan Peck said most residents do not realize the scope of Dominguez’s job, which makes the pay hike deserving. “To the public that thinks that is too much, just think of all the things that you're complaining about about that we have to resolve in some way," Peck said during the council meeting.
Dominguez was named city manager in 2012. He worked as the city manager of San Angelo, Texas from 2005 to 2012. Dominguez has a master's degree i public administration from Texas Tech University and a bachelor's degree in history from Texas Tech.
"It is truly an honor to serve this community and serve every residents of our community," Dominguez told the council. "There is no better community to be in that Longmont."
Mei, who earned $217,736 in base salary this year, will get $245,503 annually that also includes a 1% in exceptional pay, according to the city. Mei was given a $15,000 retention bonus if he leaves his job prior to Dec. 31, 2024.
Frick will make $194,754 — with 1% exceptional pay — in base pay in 2023, up from $175,431 this year.
