120105 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

December 1, 2005 Page 3 9. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION A. AB1234 - Board Of Directors Performance Of Official Duties And Board Of Directors Expense Reimbursement Policies Ward presented relevant information. He said that AB1234 will become effective January 1, 2006 and will address Board compensation, reimbursement and ethics training; staff goal is to solicit Board input and have a policy in place in January; the District's current practices are consistent with AB 1234; and the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) policy template may not be available in the near term. Holt opined that mere attendance at a District event such as Concerts in the Parks should not qualify for compensation. Gibson concurred. Lange said that Board member attendance at events is an opportunity and a responsibility to support staff and meet constituents. Gibson recommended adjustable per diem rates based on location instead of a fixed per diem. He said that a financial limit is needed as a safe guard. Jacobsen said that to increase awareness of the District's presence in the community, the Chair of the Board should be present at every Concert in the Park to speak and introduce other Board members in attendance. He requested policy examples from other agencies in the area of the District. He said a degree of flexibility is needed in determining reimbursement, citing parking expenses as an example, and suggested that mileage reimbursement be considered for some distant meetings. Berger said that compensation should only be given when one's presence is required, simple attendance doesn't merit compensation, and he approves of a per diem location adjustment. Lewanda said that staff continues to research the issue and is awaiting the CSDA policy template. Ward stated that variations in compensation policies are reflective of local factors and needs, the District has been acting in accord with the intent of the legislation, staffs goal is to have an interim policy in place in January and to modify it later if necessary.