Portland board votes to pay monthly stipends to current and future directors under new state law

The Portland Public Schools board voted Oct. 14 to authorize monthly stipends for current and future board directors under state law (House Bill 2753), a step board members described as making governance more accessible.

What the board approved: The board adopted separate resolutions — one per director zone — authorizing a stipend of up to $500 per month (Resolutions 7,189 through 7,195). Because board members cannot vote to pay themselves, each roll call required the director from the affected zone to recuse; each resolution passed with a typical 6–0 recorded result with the affected director recused.

Why members supported the change: Directors said the modest stipend helps reduce financial barriers to service. "As a single parent, I found it challenging to even consider doing this," Director Sullivan said, noting that the stipend could help cover childcare or other costs that otherwise limit who can run for office. Chair Wong and others called the action "historic" for Oregon.

Process and legal compliance: Legal counsel advised a recusal and public disclosure process consistent with the Oregon Government Ethics Commission guidance; staff explained that the statute allows districts to provide stipends up to the specified cap and does not convert board members into employees.

Board action: Each stipend resolution passed on separate motions and votes. The board also clarified that directors may decline the stipend or accept less than the maximum. Student representative Retorto's unofficial approval was noted in some votes.

What’s next: The board asked staff to implement administrative steps to record the stipend payments and to provide notice to the public; directors said they expect to revisit administrative details as necessary.

Actions recorded: Series of zone‑specific stipend resolutions (7,189–7,195), each approved in separate recorded votes.