The Salinas City Council adopted a resolution authorizing the mayor to sign an amendment to City Attorney Christopher Callahan’s employment agreement that raises his annual salary to $300,000.

The change follows closed‑session performance reviews held Oct. 14 and Oct. 28. City staff told the council the adjustment aligns Callahan’s pay “closer to the average base in total compensation for city attorneys throughout our area” and represents a prorated increase of $27,000 for the balance of this fiscal year.

Councilmember Barrera moved to approve the amendment, saying the adjustment brings the salary closer to market averages and that Callahan has kept the city informed on legal issues. Councilmember 12 (speaker listed as 12 in the transcript) thanked Callahan for his diligence and recommended he take a more front‑facing role. The motion passed on a roll call vote, with Councilmembers Barajas, Barrera, DeRigo, Dela Rosa, Salazar, Sandoval and Mayor Donahue recorded as voting yes.

Council discussion emphasized Callahan’s long service to the city; staff noted he has been employed with Salinas for over 20 years and was appointed city attorney in 2014. The agenda report said the agreement provides for annual performance and compensation reviews.

The action was procedural and limited to the employment agreement amendment; no changes to the city’s legal services structure or additional staffing were approved at the meeting. The resolution was approved and the council congratulated Callahan.