The Austin City Council has approved amending the budgeted salary for their top-paid employee back to his 2008 rate, effective Feb. 8.

City administrator Jim Hurm was scheduled for his annual 3 percent increase for 2009, which would have put his salary at $104,416. By declining his raise, Hurm will be sitting at $101,379.

Hurm offered to forgo his raise because of anticipated cutbacks in Local Government Aid.

Council members unanimously voted during their regular meeting Monday night to accept Hurm’s offer to forgo his annual increase.

“I would like to thank Mr. Hurm for setting an example,” council member Brian McAlister said.

The city council and mayor have not opted to increase their salaries for several years.

The mayor earns $9,000 per year; the at-large council member earns $7,800; and the other council members earn $6,600 per year.

The last increase for the mayor and council was on Jan. 1, 2001. At that time, the mayor’s salary was increased from $6,000; the at-large seat from $4,500; and the rest of the council from $4,000.

The officials are not offered health insurance; however, they are offered minor life insurance and PERA benefits, although few opt to participate, said Tom Dankert, director of administrative services.