School board trustees approved a measure last month that increases their monthly salary by $200 to $400. The motion was effective Dec. 1, 2006.
The raise is the maximum amount they can earn working as a board member in the district, said Terry Koehne, spokesman for the San Ramon Valley Unified School District.
“They doubled their compensation,” he said.
Trustee Bill Clarkson said the board has not had a raise since 1990.
“It’s been 26 years,” Clarkson said. “I think we are a bargain.”
Additionally, the trustees have the option of participating in a health and welfare benefits program provided for district employees. However, to participate, they must pay for the benefits out of their own pocket, Clarkson noted.
“We have no benefits,” he said. He added that health insurance is estimated to cost $800 to $2,000 depending on the individual’s situation.
Additionally, school board members may be reimbursed for all expenses incurred in attending meetings or making trips on official district business that is authorized in advance by the board. The rate of reimbursement cannot exceed limitations specified by district personnel.
Members of the Danville Town Council also recently raised their salary from $563 per month to $675, effective Jan. 1. They do not get benefits, said Denise Phoenix, Danville Human Resources Manager.
The school board vote for the raise was 4-1, with Trustee Paul Gardner opposed.
