Burr Ridge Mayor's Allies Oppose His Request For Raise

ELMHURST, IL — Burr Ridge Mayor Gary Grasso is proposing a 500 percent pay increase for the mayor. But three village trustees say that's too much.

The issue came up during Monday's Village Board meeting. Earlier in the month, Grasso sent a letter to the community about his proposal, saying the mayor's work has increased over time.

Grasso told the board he received 117 communications in favor of the increase, 50 against and 19 who support a much smaller hike.

Now, the mayor makes $6,000 a year. Under his proposal, it would go up to $30,000.

Other area mayors make little compensation. Those in Hinsdale and Western Springs earn nothing at all.

In his letter, Grasso said the duties of the mayor have increased in the last few years, including with the Sterigenics situation and the ongoing pandemic. The mayor, he said, must play a stronger role with the owners of the Village Center and County Line Square.

Trustee Zach Mottl opposes the mayor's proposal for an increase. But he and Grasso have been at odds on plenty of issues. More surprising is that two trustees seen as allies of Grasso are not on board.

Trustee Tony Schiappa acknowledged that the mayor's responsibilities have increased, but added, "Thirty thousand is an aggressive ask."

Trustee Guy Franzese said it was not the right time for such an increase. He said many people, including himself, have taken pay cuts and been furloughed during the pandemic.

"I cannot support a pay raise for staff. I cannot support a pay raise for the mayor or for myself as a trustee," Franzese said.

Trustee Anita Mital said she would rather put the issue of a mayoral salary increase to the voters.

During public input, the board heard from both sides of the issue. It got emotional at times.

Resident Patricia Davis, who opposed the increase, said Grasso was lying when he said the Willowbrook mayor made $25,000 a year. She said the compensation was $18,000.

Grasso said Davis was mistaken with her number, adding, "I would never call you what you called me."

The board agreed to make a decision at its Nov. 9 meeting.

Under state law, a governing body must decide on elected officials' salaries six months before their new terms begin. In Burr Ridge, that will be May 10.

Grasso was mayor from 2009 to 2012 and was elected again in 2019. He has not announced whether he is running for another term.