Question: Can the City provide a stipend to young Alexandrians who participate on our Boards and Commissions, as they are often facing travel costs or not participating in work or other out-of-school programs in order to serve the City? If so, what does the staff feel would be appropriate in this regard? (Councilman R. Kirk McPike)
Response:
The City currently has 54 active Boards and Commissions groups. There are 9 active Boards and Commissions groups with a total of 14 youth under 18 and young adult members that are within the 18-30 age range. The table below reflects the current active Boards and Commissions groups with the number of youth positions associated.
The total annual cost of a $25 stipend for 14 youth members would be $3,500 (14 youth members x $25 rate x 10 annual average Boards and Commissions meetings). This rate would be based on verified attendance at the body’s scheduled meetings.
There are currently 695 filled seats for City boards and commissions. If the $25 rate was provided to all members that would be at a cost of $173,750 (to include youth members). This dollar amount is based on $25 per meeting with most commissions holding at least 10 meetings per year. Payment would be granted based on verified attendance at the scheduled meetings.
Research of neighboring jurisdictions shows that there is precedent for both nonpayment and payment to those who participate on boards and commissions. Below is information highlighting a few:
