Raise approved for Chamberlain
By Terry Murry on Monday, July 31st, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – Walla Walla City Manager Elizabeth Chamberlain will be getting a pay raise beginning tomorrow (Tuesday) following the city council’s unanimous approval last week of a three-year contract and a three-percent annual salary increase.
Chamberlain, who was appointed to the role in December, had a starting annual salary of $187,116 which is the same salary as retiring City Manager Nabiel Shawa. With the city of Walla Walla since 2014, Chamberlain served as development services director from November 2014 to July 2020, when she became support services director and took on the role of deputy city manager.
Chamberlain will receive a three-percent increase to an annual salary of $192,729 and at least a three percent increase each of the remaining years in January. According to her contract, she will receive at least $210,560 as of Jan. 1, 2026, that will cover the last year of the new contract.
Chamberlain, who is the first woman to hold the position, said she’s grateful for the council’s support.
“While I am the face of the organization and yes, have the title of city manager, it is the 300 employees that work for the organization and the leadership team – I can’t do what I do without them,” she said. “I want the residents to know I love working for the city of Walla Walla.
