Compensation and Benefits Information

Los Altos City Council members do not receive salaries, nor any post-retirement benefits, but are offered other benefits in exchange for their service. The following outlines compensation and benefits available to the Mayor and Councilmembers. 

Stipend

Council members are paid a $300 stipend per month for their service on Council as established in the California Government Code.  

Dental/Vision

Council members are eligible to be reimbursed for eligible dental and vision expenses. For calendar year 2024, Council members may be reimbursed up to $2,119.00 per year; dependent coverage is not provided. This benefit is handled strictly on a reimbursement basis and unused funds are not given to the individual Council member.

Medical

Council members are provided the option to sign up for one of the City’s Health Plans. This is not a requirement but an option. For calendar year 2024, the maximum amount the City contributes per month is $914.82 for single coverage. Council members may elect to enroll eligible dependents, though the City does not contribute toward the premium for dependent coverage. If the premium for single coverage exceeds $914.82, the individual Council member is responsible for paying the balance. Upon the conclusion of their service, Council members may elect to enter COBRA, but are responsible for all individual costs related to that program.