COLUMBIANA — Fifty years ago, when the then-village of Columbiana passed its charter, council members were earning $20 per month.

That has never changed, but in 2026 it may.

During Tuesday’s regular meeting, council president “Skip” Liston announced that after having Bryce Miner do some research, next month members will look into hiking the amount it pays its elected and appointed officials effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Liston explained that the new rate for council will be $350 per month, which still puts Columbiana in the lower one-third, according to the data.

Council president would earn $375 per month and the mayor $400 per month starting next year.

The three council members up for election this year legally is unable to see that boost, he added.

Councilman Dan Dattilio said that even though members don’t take the job for the money, the move, which appears to be pending with legislation presented next month, is appropriate.

The difference between what Columbiana paid was anywhere between 20 to 50 times less than other municipalities, explained Dattilio.

“Twenty dollars was literally a laughing stock,” he said, adding that the new numbers still are among the lowest out there.

For example, $20 was the equivalent of more than $800 back then, Dattilio explained.

Members of the planning commission and the clerks assigned to various bodies also will see a bump in their salary.

Liston said, “Though not essential, this will take us off the laughing board list.”

In other action, members:

— Approved a request for Crystal Siembida Boggs to hold the Sunset Dip 5K, which raised $1,000 for the Firestone pool last year. (The date and location of the event were not publicly disclosed.)

— Hired Cory Newell as a new part-time patrolman for the city police force.

— Approved second reading of legislation allowing lateral hires to the city police department and adding a certified instructor of CPR, first aid and the AED to the Firestone park staff to teach public courses.

— Approving a fire protection contract between the city and Fairfield Township under new business.