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Board votes to raise trustee monthly stipend to $1,200 under AB 1390
Summary
Trustees discussed optics and access before approving a resolution to set the monthly trustee stipend at the new statutory maximum of $1,200, citing the effect of unpaid time and the goal of broadening who can serve.
Trustees debated Resolution 15, which sets the monthly trustee stipend at $1,200 under AB 1390, the first statutory change to board compensation limits since 1984. The resolution was introduced to reduce financial barriers to service and to encourage a broader and more diverse candidate pool for open trustee seats.
A trustee introducing the resolution told colleagues the change acknowledges extensive preparatory work and community engagement that trustees perform beyond two monthly meetings. "I am recommending to the board that you all set the limit at $1,200," the trustee said, urging that raising the stipend can help cast a wider net for candidates.
Board members acknowledged concerns about optics when elected officials vote on their own pay but said the intent is to make service feasible for people who cannot afford unpaid time. Several trustees suggested follow‑up work to determine whether to include automatic annual increases tied to the statutory 5% allowance in future bylaws; trustees agreed to pass the resolution and return later with more detailed bylaw language if desired.
The motion carried in a voice vote. Staff will update board bylaws and post the compensation change and follow up on how annual statutory increases will be handled in subsequent board action.
