(Just The News)—The Democrat-controlled New York City Council may give its members, and incoming Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, a double-digit pay raise to ring in the new year.
A proposal filed this week by Councilwoman Nantasha Williams, a Queens Democrat, would boost council members’ annual pay by 16% from $148,500 to $172,500, the New York Post reported.
The measure, which is backed by more than 30 councilors, was introduced Tuesday and could come up for a public hearing before the end of the year, with the goal of putting it on Mamdani’s desk for his signature shortly after he’s sworn in to office on Jan. 1, the lawmaker told the news outlet.
If approved, the proposed pay hike would also apply to the new mayor, public advocate, comptroller and borough presidents. It would raise Mamdani’s pay to nearly $350,000 from the current $258,000 with benefits.
Council members haven’t had a raise since 2016, when their pay increased by more than $30,000 per year. They are among the highest-paid city councilors in major U.S. cities, dwarfed only by Los Angeles and Chicago, according to published data.
The bill, if approved, would increase the 50-member council’s salary budget from $7.5 million to $8.8 million.
However, the proposal could also be problematic for the incoming Democratic Socialist mayor, who ran on a platform of improving affordability for average New Yorkers. Mamdani would be required to sign the bill — and face criticism from voters — or veto it, creating early friction with councilors whose votes he’ll need to advance his legislative agenda.
On the campaign trail, Mamdani vowed to eliminate fares to ride New York City’s public bus system, use taxpayer money to fully subsidize tuition at the City University of New York, and freeze rents in municipal housing. He has also called for taxing the state’s top earners and raising New York City’s minimum wage to $30 an hour by 2030. Those controversial plans will require state and local approval.
The New York Daily News reported that Williams had planned to put the pay raise bill up for a December vote. Still, it was quashed after officials pointed out the city’s charter prohibits decisions on raises during the “lame duck” period between Election Day and the New Year.
Backers of the plan also expressed concern that outgoing Democratic Mayor Eric Adams — who has feuded with the council over the past year — would veto the pay raise plan all the way out the door.
Three Reasons a Coffee Gift Set From This Christian Company Is Perfect for Christmas
When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that’s meaningful, useful, and rooted in faith, you don’t want to settle for anything generic. This season is filled with noise — mass-produced products, last-minute picks, and trends that fade as quickly as they appear. But one gift stands apart because it blends genuine quality with a message that matters: a coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee.
This small Christian-owned company has become a favorite among believers who want to support faith-driven businesses while giving friends and family something they’ll actually enjoy. Here are three reasons a Promised Grounds Coffee gift set may be the most thoughtful and impactful present you give this year.
1. It’s Truly Delicious Coffee
Too many “gift-worthy” coffees look beautiful in the package but disappoint when the cup is poured. Promised Grounds takes the opposite approach — exceptional taste first, thoughtful presentation second.
Their beans are sourced with care, roasted in small batches, and crafted to bring out a rich, smooth flavor profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and true coffee lovers. Whether someone enjoys bold, dark roasts or lighter, more delicate blends, every sip reflects quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest specialty brands.
Simply put: this coffee is good. Really good. Some say it’s absolutely fantastic. If you want a gift that won’t be re-gifted, ignored, or shoved in a cabinet, this is it.
2. It Spreads the Word While Serving a Real Purpose
There are many Christian gifts that are meaningful… but not exactly practical. There are also useful gifts that have nothing to do with faith. Promised Grounds Coffee bridges both worlds beautifully.
Each gift set delivers an encouraging, faith-centered message through its packaging and presentation — a simple but powerful reminder of God’s goodness during the Christmas season. The cups are especially popular and serve as a daily reminder of the blessings from our Lord. At the same time, the product itself is something people will actually use and appreciate every single day.
It’s a gift that uplifts the spirit and fills the mug. A gift that points loved ones toward Scripture while still being part of the normal rhythm of life. And in a culture that increasingly pushes faith to the margins, giving a gift that quietly but confidently honors Christ can make a deeper impact than you might expect.
3. It’s Affordable, Valuable, and Elegantly Presented
Many people want to give something meaningful without breaking their Christmas budget. Promised Grounds Coffee strikes that perfect balance — the sets look and feel premium, but the price remains accessible.
The packaging is classy, clean, and gift-ready, making it ideal for:
- Family members of all ages
- Co-workers or employees
- Church friends or small-group leaders
- Hosts, neighbors, and last-minute gift needs
It’s the kind of gift that feels more expensive than it is — and more thoughtful than most of what you’ll find on store shelves.
The Perfect Blend of Faith, Flavor, and Christmas Cheer
A coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee checks every box: a gift that tastes amazing, conveys your faith, supports a Christian business, and brings daily enjoyment to the person who receives it. In a season when so many gifts are forgotten, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
If you want a Christmas present that reflects your values and delivers genuine joy, Promised Grounds Coffee is the perfect place to start.