Board approves 10% superintendent performance incentive; two directors dissent

The Robbinsdale Area School Board on July 9 approved a contractual performance incentive payment equal to 10% of the superintendent’s base salary for the 2025–26 year.

Chair Evans Becker presented a resolution noting the superintendent’s contract (term 07/01/2024–06/30/2027) allows an annual performance incentive up to 10% of base salary when the superintendent meets predetermined goals. The chair summarized the closed-session evaluation without discussing protected personnel details and said a memorandum of agreement dated June 29, 2026, waived the prior June 30 payment deadline.

The resolution to award the full 10% incentive was moved and seconded. The clerk conducted a roll-call vote recorded on the public record: Director Brennison voted yes; Chair Evans Becker yes; Director Hillenbrand yes; Director Long no; Director Wutto yes; Director Bassett no; Director Bowman yes. The motion carried, and the financial officer was authorized to direct payroll to implement payment on July 10, 2026.

During discussion the chair cautioned members not to comment on closed-session materials because evaluation content is personnel data. Director Brintesen noted concerns about contract language and asked that future contracts be clearer; Director Brintesen also signaled a personal decision to forgo an unspecified stipend to avoid appearance issues. Director Long said she brought the item forward for public vote after researching open‑meeting requirements.

The board took action only on the payment authorized in the resolution and did not discuss evaluation specifics in open session.