Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Board Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves increase to trustee remuneration after debate over timing and optics
Summary
Trustees approved an increase in board member remuneration under new state rules, voting 3-2 after public criticism of timing and transparency; board president defended the change as necessary to broaden the pool of candidates and reflect expanded trustee duties.
The board voted 3-2 to increase trustee remuneration, a decision that drew public criticism about timing and perceived lack of transparency.
Public commenters said approving an increase in trustee pay during a summer meeting after a recent strike and amid active public concern gave the appearance of poor timing. One commenter referenced a prior, smaller raise and urged the board to postpone further changes until after the November election.
Board President Grant and other trustees said state law recognizes expanded trustee responsibilities and that modest increases help attract a broader, less independently wealthy pool of candidates. Several trustees described prior discussion in January and the decision to defer action until after negotiations; the vote carried 3 in favor and 2 opposed. The board recorded the roll-call tally and the motion passed.
