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Trustees debate chamber membership levels as possible taxpayer savings discussed
Summary
Board members questioned the district's $1,200 annual membership to the Rathdrum Chamber and discussed reverting to lower nonprofit rates to save roughly $1,100; the board did not give binding direction but asked for the renewal date and further discussion.
Trustees discussed whether Lakeland District should remain in a higher-paid membership tier with the Rathdrum Chamber at $1,200 annually or revert to a lower nonprofit rate (about $100) to save roughly $1,100 in taxpayer-funded dues.
One trustee urged returning to the nonprofit tier to spread membership equity among cities the district serves, arguing the $1,200 payment favors Rathdrum while other neighboring cities receive less district recognition. The trustee said she had asked the superintendent when the membership renewal occurs and had not directed staff to change levels; she sought clarity on timing and the board's intent.
Trustees and administrators discussed trade-offs: district officials noted that membership and chamber support were important during the district's recent levy campaign, and others cautioned that membership can provide opportunities for district leaders to speak at chamber events. The superintendent's follow-up, as reported at the meeting, indicated staff had alerted the chamber the board had asked about moving back to the nonprofit tier; board members emphasized the question had only been raised and that no formal directive was given.
Ending: The board did not make a formal motion. Staff agreed to provide the renewal date and bring the item back to the board for a formal decision on membership level.
