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Boone County board approves modest per‑diem increase after debate over recruitment and taxpayer impact
Summary
After a prolonged debate about compensation and candidate recruitment, Boone County adopted ordinance 26-14 raising board per diems and recognizing extra stipends for committee chairs; the motion passed by roll call April 16.
Boone County commissioners voted April 16 to raise board per diem and related stipends, concluding a lengthy debate that split the board.
Supporters cited long intervals without pay increases and argued that modest compensation helps recruit qualified candidates and recognizes time demands on officers. Mr. Wilty noted that earlier per‑diem levels had not kept pace with inflation and argued for modest increases to avoid larger jumps later. "That was established... in 2000. None. And that puts us again in a situation that's just... it's only going to get worse," he said, framing the change as catch‑up.
Opponents raised concerns about asking taxpayers to fund higher pay and said public service should remain affordable. Several members said they understood both sides; Ms. Patterson said members could decline pay if they prefer and supported the change in principle.
After discussion the board voted by roll call to adopt ordinance 26‑14 establishing the new per‑diem and chairman/committee stipends; the clerk recorded the votes and the motion carried.
