By JIM BUTLER
Tuesday election results mean seven of the nine School Board members will be new on the job come 2027.
Outgoing term-limited member Wilton Barrios purposes raising the pay for their work ahead.
On today’s board meeting agenda is his proposal to discuss and take possible action on raising board salaries to $800 monthly, $900 for the president, effective February 2.
The current schedule – $700 monthly, $750 for the president has been in effect – prepare yourself – more than 30 years. Executive
Committee members receive an additional $50.
Barrios also proposes discussing and possibly taking action regarding increases for cafeteria and support personnel.
There is a major difference in the two items. One has legislative requirements, the other does not.
A section of Louisiana law deals with board remuneration. It appears to require twice-published public notice of intent to consider a change as well as a two-thirds approval vote.
Appears is the operative word, as statutes sometimes do not mean what they seem to. Such is the nature of legislation.
Campaigning by the various board candidates this fall did not appear to reflect pay concerns.