Mayor Pulls Pay-Raise Request After Public Backlash, Wayne Council's Opposition: Report

WAYNE, NJ — Mayor Christopher Vergano asked the Wayne Township Council to drop an ordinance that would've given him a 647 percent pay raise, according to New Jersey Advance Media. The controversial ordinance, which would have made Wayne's mayorship a full-time role, sparked public backlash and opposition from several council members.

The ordinance was set for a vote during Wednesday's council meeting. It's now expected to be tabled, according to NJ Advance Media.

Wayne's mayorship is currently part-time, with a salary of $18,750. The ordinance would have raised the salary to $140,000, while entitling the officeholder to benefits and leave time. Vergano, a Republican in his fourth term, has held the position since 2008.

The ordinance was introduced at Jan. 4's council meeting, where Vergano contended that the role has changed since he first took office and Wayne deserves a full-time mayor. But several council members, including fellow Republicans, voiced opposition. Read more: Mayor's Controversial Pay Raise Set For Vote From Wayne Council

Members of the public also questioned the controversial measure. An online petition, which received 748 signatures, called for a referendum on the mayor's pay raise. TAPinto Wayne took an informal survey asking whether the council should make the mayorship full-time. Out of 539 responses, 420 said "no," 72 voted "yes" and 47 said "not immediately."

The council meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Wayne Municipal Building.