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Woodside council votes 5–1 to pay council members $950 a month starting with next council
Summary
The council adopted an ordinance adding §30.04 to set council compensation at $950 per month (statutory maximum), a move proponents said would broaden the pool of candidates and increase accountability while detractors said pay contradicts Woodside's volunteer tradition; vote passed 5–1.
The Woodside Town Council voted 5–1 to adopt an ordinance to set council member compensation at $950 per month, effective when the next council is seated.
Staff noted the amount reflects the statutory maximum for towns of Woodside’s size; Town Attorney explained government code allows council members to vote on compensation without creating a conflict of interest. Supporters argued modest compensation recognizes substantial time commitments, may improve accountability and diversify candidate pools, and aligns Woodside with many comparable jurisdictions. Opponents framed the vote as a break with the town’s volunteer tradition and said they preferred citizen referral or advisory measures.
The motion to adopt the ordinance carried 5–1 in roll call. The ordinance will become effective when the next council is seated as allowed by statute.
