While the City’s primary focus in recent weeks has been, and continues to be, reaching a resolution to the current labour dispute, the City of Corner Brook is also aware of claims circulating in the community that the Mayor and members of Council have recently received a pay increase. The City wishes to clarify that this is not accurate.
No Change Since 2019
Council remuneration in Corner Brook has not changed since 2019. Current annual remuneration is:
- Mayor: $39,300
- Deputy Mayor: $27,120
- Councillor: $25,380
These rates are set under the City’s Council Remuneration and Reimbursement Regulations, 2018, and are published on the City’s website for any resident to review at cornerbrook.com/council/remuneration.
How Corner Brook Compares
Corner Brook’s Council remuneration remains below that of several other cities and larger municipalities in Newfoundland and Labrador, at every level: Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Councillor.
About the 2024 Remuneration Motion
Some of the confusion appears to stem from a motion considered by the previous Council. On September 9, 2024, Council voted on a motion to increase remuneration for the next term of Council. While two-thirds of the members present voted in favour, the motion required the support of two-thirds of all elected members of Council, and one member was absent. As a result, the motion was defeated.
This outcome was announced by then-Mayor Jim Parsons at the Regular Council Meeting of September 24, 2024. A recording of that announcement is available here. No increase was ever implemented.
A Note on Online Information and AI Tools
The City has noticed that some AI tools and search summaries are drawing on 2024 news articles about the proposed remuneration increase, and presenting the increase as fact, without noting that the motion was ultimately defeated. Older news stories often remain online long after circumstances have changed, and AI tools do not always distinguish between what was proposed and what is actually in effect.
The City encourages residents to check information against official sources, especially when relying on AI tools. Current Council remuneration, Council decisions, and official City updates are always available at cornerbrook.com.
Our Commitment to Accurate Information
The City understands that residents have strong feelings about the ongoing labour dispute with CUPE Local 4386 at the Corner Brook Civic Centre. The closure has affected families, athletes, seniors, and user groups across our region, and it is natural for people to want answers. During a time like this, it is especially important that public discussion is based on accurate information. The City remains committed to transparency, and Council remuneration will continue to be published openly for residents. Our goal remains the same: Fair to All Employees. Responsible to All Taxpayers.
