FOREST ACRES, SC — Forest Acres City Council gave an initial vote of approval to give themselves raises July 1.

The proposal passed Tuesday night on a 3-1 vote, with Councilman Shell Suber voting "no" and Councilman Charlie Fetner absent.

The measure would provide for a 37.5 percent increase for each of the four members of the council, from $4,800 to $6,600 a month; and a 30 percent increase for the mayor, from $6,000 to $7,800.

The raises would translate into a $150-a-month increase for council members and the mayor alike.

No members of the public spoke on the issue, which requires a second vote Feb. 12 to pass.

Dawn Hinshaw