Robla trustees open public process on raising board pay under AB 1390

Trustees discussed whether to raise board member compensation under AB 1390 during the district’s annual organizational meeting on Dec. 18.

Staff summarized AB 1390 and noted that, because Robla’s average daily attendance (ADA) places it in the relevant statutory band, the board would be allowed to set compensation up to $1,200 per month. The presenter said the increase would be effective Jan. 1, 2026, if the board adopts a change that complies with the statute.

Board members acknowledged they do not serve for pay and said any adjustment should be framed as a normalization to reduce barriers for candidates who cannot afford uncompensated public service. Several trustees, including Trustee Barnes and Trustee Devine, said they support considering an increase but asked for more detailed comparisons with similarly sized districts and for input from staff, classified and certificated groups, parents and other community partners. One trustee urged aligning changes with staff pay increases to avoid perceptions of unfairness.

A public commenter asked how the funds would be used if board compensation were increased and whether those dollars are otherwise earmarked in the budget; trustees said those questions will be part of forthcoming outreach and analysis.

No formal motion to set a new compensation level was made. The board directed staff to gather comparative data and community feedback and return the item for continued discussion at a future meeting before taking any formal vote.