In a 4 to 1 vote, DeKalb City Council members voted themselves and Mayor Greg Sparrow pay raises at Monday’s council meeting.

The raises will affect the mayor’s position and wards 2, 4 and 6, which are up for reelection in April. Raises will be effective May 1, 1989, Sparrow said.

The mayor’s salary will increase from $13,200 a year to $16,200. Aldermens’ salaries will increase from $3,600 a year to $5,200.

First Ward Alderman Christine Hoagland, whose ward comprises Greek Row, voted against the raise. “I disagree with increasing (aldermens’ pay),” Hoagland said. “It is a token salary. I don’t think it is intended to compensate people.”

Seventh Ward Alderman Mark Powell abstained, citing political aspirations.

Second Ward Alderman Michael Welsh was absent.

The majority of aldermen justified the raises because of the increased responsibilities of their offices.

Fourth Ward Alderman Rita Tewksbury said that two years ago, “I pro-rated the number of hours I work, and I came up with 30 cents an hour.”