Seattle City Light CEO appears headed for big pay hike

Seattle City Light CEO Jorge Carrasco



SEATTLE --  The head of Seattle City Light is likely getting a big pay raise.

The Seattle City Council voted 6-2 Monday to increase the pay range for City Light CEO and GM Jorge Carrasco by 45%.

Mayor Ed Murray asked the council to raise the pay range for that position from $227,779 to $364,481 -- and Murray is the one who will determine Carrasco's salary.

Carrasco, who now makes $250,750, is already the highest paid city employee.

Critics argued the salary increase was excessive, but supporters say staying competitive allows the city to attract and maintain high caliber talent in a complicated position.