Ever wonder what top public officials and educators in your city earn? Manchester’s latest compensation report is out, and some figures might surprise you! From police chiefs to school superintendents, find out who’s topping the list. Is it what you expected?
A recent fiscal year 2025 report has brought to light the substantial compensation packages received by nearly 250 city and school employees in Manchester, with a significant number earning over $100,000 annually. This revelation offers a transparent look into public sector compensation, sparking discussions about local governance and financial allocations within the city. The data, meticulously compiled and released by City Hall, underscores the financial landscape for Manchester employee salaries and benefits, drawing considerable public attention.
The comprehensive analysis of the city-side payroll indicates that the majority of these top-tier earners hold pivotal leadership roles. Manchester Police Chief Peter Marr led the list with just over $200,000 in total earnings, exemplifying the higher echelons of public service compensation. Other prominent figures included department heads, deputy department heads, and high-seniority police and fire personnel, reflecting the structure of the city’s operational leadership and their respective fiscal year 2025 budget allocations.
Notably, the report also showcased the significant presence of women among the top 25 earners on the city side. City Solicitor Emily Rice secured the third spot with $193,333, followed by Public Health Director Anna Thomas and Finance Director Sharon Wickens. City Library Director Denise Van Zanten also featured prominently, underscoring the vital roles women play in Manchester’s administrative framework and the equity in public sector compensation for these key positions.
Further details from the city’s financial records shed light on the Mayor’s compensation. Mayor Jay Ruais, ranking 179th on the fiscal 2025 list with $100,000, saw a notable increase in his annual salary. This raise, approved by aldermen, marked the first adjustment for the mayoral position since 1997, reflecting evolving economic standards and the perceived value of the role within Manchester City Hall payroll.
Shifting focus to the educational sector, Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel emerged as the highest earner on the school side, with gross earnings of $192,520, positioning her fourth overall when combined with city figures. The data for the school district also revealed that over 533 Queen City teachers earned more than $70,000 in fiscal year 2025, highlighting the significant investment in the city’s educators. These school district finances, including stipends and overtime, paint a clear picture of educational compensation.
Beyond the top figures, the report offered insights into the earnings of various city employees. The average Manchester police officer earned $83,173, with sergeants, lieutenants, and captains receiving significantly higher amounts. Essential service providers, such as trash collectors, drivers, and water treatment plant employees, also had their compensation detailed, showing average earnings around $50,000-$60,000, while maintenance superintendents could earn upwards of $115,000. These figures provide a granular view of the New Hampshire public salaries across different departments.
Looking ahead, Manchester is poised for further increases in city salaries, following the approval of new contracts with ten city unions. These agreements, set to take effect from July 1, guarantee a minimum of a 3% raise for employees, ensuring a steady progression in public sector compensation. Additionally, a 3% retention incentive raise awaits employees reaching 15 consecutive years of service, demonstrating the city’s commitment to retaining experienced personnel and stabilizing the City Hall payroll.
The newly ratified contracts include specific provisions tailored to different employee groups. For instance, firefighters deployed locally or nationally will receive one-and-a-half times their hourly rate for hours worked during deployment, acknowledging their critical service. On the education front, a three-year deal with teachers includes a substantial 9% raise in the first year, alongside hiring bonuses and additional workdays, significantly boosting school district finances and the average teacher salary in Manchester, which is now slightly above the state average.
