PRESS RELEASE: Wilmington City Council Approves One-Time $1,000 Pension Stipend for Eligible City Retirees in Fiscal Year 2027
June 29, 2026
Wilmington City Council Approves One-Time $1,000 Pension Stipend for Eligible City Retirees in Fiscal Year 2027
To read Ordinance 26-034 in full, visit the link here.
Wilmington, DE — In a continued effort to recognize and honor the dedication of the men and women who devoted their careers to public service, Wilmington City Council approved legislation introduced by Finance Committee Chair and 4th District Councilwoman Michelle Harlee to implement the City of Wilmington Pension Commission’s recommendation for a one-time stipend for eligible City retirees during City Council’s Regular Meeting on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
The adopted ordinance authorizes a one-time payment of $1,000 to all City of Wilmington pension benefit recipients who retired on or before December 31, 2019, for Fiscal Year 2027, which begins July 1, 2026.
The legislation was introduced pursuant to City Code Section 39-6(c), which requires the City of Wilmington Pension Commission to annually review the City’s financial condition and formulate recommendations regarding retiree cost-of-living increases or other pension-related financial support measures. Following its annual review and meetings held on March 16, 2026, and April 13, 2026, the Pension Commission formally recommended the one-time stipend in lieu of a cost-of-living increase.
Councilwoman Harlee said the legislation represents a meaningful acknowledgment of the sacrifices and service of retired City employees who helped shape Wilmington through decades of public service.
“Our retirees dedicated years of their lives to serving the people of Wilmington, often sacrificing time with their families and working through some of the most challenging periods in our city’s history,” said Councilwoman Harlee. “This one-time stipend is a message that their service, commitment, and contributions have not been forgotten. As the cost of living continues to rise, City Council wanted to take a responsible step that both honors our retirees and protects the long-term stability of our pension system.”
Councilwoman Harlee also emphasized the importance of collaboration between City Council, the Pension Commission, and the Administration in identifying a fiscally responsible solution that provides direct support to retirees while safeguarding the City’s financial future.
“We understand that many retirees are living on fixed incomes and continue to feel the impact of inflation and rising everyday costs,” Councilwoman Harlee added. “This ordinance reflects our commitment to balancing compassion with fiscal responsibility. By funding this stipend through the Tax Stabilization Reserve, we are able to provide meaningful support without adding additional strain to the pension trust funds.”
Third District Councilwoman Zanthia Oliver, who has long been a strong advocate for City pensioners receiving additional support and increases and is a co-sponsor of the ordinance, also voiced support for the legislation and the importance of continuing to prioritize retirees who helped build and sustain Wilmington’s workforce.
“Our retirees poured their lives into this City,” said Councilwoman Oliver. “Many of them spent decades keeping Wilmington running, serving our neighborhoods, protecting our residents, and helping move our City forward. They deserve to know their sacrifices still matter. This stipend may not erase the financial pressures many are facing, but it sends a powerful message that Wilmington values and respects those who gave so much in service to our community.”
Mayor John Carney will join members of Wilmington City Council this Friday morning to officially sign the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, which includes this ordinance. Passed by City Council on Thursday, May 21, 2026, the FY2027 Budget includes historic investments in housing, public safety, neighborhood stabilization, community vibrancy, and essential city services aimed at strengthening Wilmington’s future and improving quality of life for residents across the City.
The ordinance takes effect on July 1, 2026, and the stipend disbursement will occur during Fiscal Year 2027.
###
COMMUNITY AND MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Yesenia TaverasDirector of Communications
Wilmington City CouncilOffice: (302)576-2585
Email: ytaveras@wilmingtonde.gov