Mayor withdraws proposal to allow pay for decision-making boards after aldermen raise concerns

Mayor Jamie Clary introduced an ordinance to amend the municipal code so boards that make final decisions (for example the Beer Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, Parks Board and Golf Course Commission) could be compensated and receive consistent training. The proposal prompted extended debate at the April 28 meeting.

The mayor said the goal was consistency and better training for volunteer boards that make consequential decisions. A slide presented as "other possible expenses" included a $17,000 six‑month cost illustration, which several aldermen cited during the discussion.

Alderman Sasse and others opposed paying volunteers on principle, arguing that compensation risks changing motivations and could create division among members. Alderman Ward proposed an alternative approach: compensate members for required training time rather than for attendance at volunteer meetings. Alderman Robertson suggested compensation be limited to boards that must complete mandated training, and several members asked for clearer language on limits and conditions.

Sponsor Alderman Burgdorf withdrew the ordinance at the meeting to allow staff and council members to redraft language that could address training, limits and administrative concerns. No compensation appropriation was made; the proposal’s withdrawal means any future payment would require further ordinance language and likely a budget decision.