HUTCHINSON, Kan. (KAKE)— Hutchinson City Council has approved a new contract for City Manager Enrico Villegas, increasing his salary and benefits by more than 30%.

The new agreement raises Villegas’ base salary from $162,500 to $191,993.80 annually. With additional benefits including deferred compensation, a city-provided phone and a $6,000 yearly vehicle allowance, his total compensation package is more than $231,500 per year. That amount does not include health insurance or paid time off.

Following the decision, dozens of comments were posted on the Hutchinson Tribune Facebook page, many voicing frustration.

One comment reads in part:

“This is absurd. Comparing the size of Hutchinson to Wichita he is making 4x the amount as Wichita's city manager based on population.”

Another says:

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