In a recent government meeting, board members engaged in a heated discussion regarding the potential compensation for elected officials, particularly focusing on school board members. The conversation was sparked by the need to decide whether to address the issue now or postpone it until after the upcoming election.

One board member expressed strong opposition to the idea of awarding compensation, emphasizing that the appearance of impropriety is as significant as impropriety itself. They argued that while future elected officials could be compensated, current members should not benefit from such a decision. This sentiment was echoed by others who voiced concerns about the implications of introducing pay for public service roles, suggesting it could lead to a slippery slope of increasing compensation demands.

The discussion also touched on the current compensation levels for city council members, which were noted to be around $450 per month, and the potential for attracting a wider pool of candidates if compensation were introduced. However, several members firmly believed that public service should remain voluntary and driven by a commitment to the community rather than financial incentives.

One board member passionately stated that they would not accept payment for their service, highlighting their personal sacrifices to fulfill their role. They argued that the current board is composed of dedicated individuals who are motivated by a desire to serve rather than financial gain.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that the decision on compensation should be made transparently and reflect the values of public service, with several members advocating for maintaining the integrity of the board's mission without the influence of monetary compensation.