Board weighs modest increase in member pay after decades without raise

Summary

Board members discussed a referral to raise annual board compensation, noting the last increase was decades ago; a working proposal of $100 per month (about $1,200/year) was put forward and the board agreed to bring a motion at the business meeting and to create governance language for an annual review.

Boardmember O'Connell introduced a referral to review board compensation, noting compensation had not been adjusted in decades. Members said the lack of adjustment creates out‑of‑pocket burdens and may deter candidates.

Discussion referenced neighboring districts and recent research provided to the board; Kenosha’s board compensation was cited as about $6,400 per year. Board members proposed a $100‑per‑month increase (approximately $1,200/year) that would raise current compensation from $3,600 to about $4,800 annually. Several members urged fiscal sensitivity given district finances; others argued a catch‑up increase and an annual review mechanism were reasonable. One member recommended tying implementation to the seating of a new board (May/April timing discussed). The board agreed to place a $100/month increase motion on the business agenda and to bring governance language for an annual review process.

Provenance: topicintro SEG 1859; topfinish SEG 2225.