Village board approves significant pay raise after 25 years

In a recent government meeting, the Village Board of Menomonee Falls made significant strides in addressing both procedural updates and compensation adjustments for its members.

The board unanimously approved an amendment to the public comment policy, allowing the village president to review and approve the language used in public comment forms and agenda items. This change aims to streamline communication and ensure clarity for residents participating in public discussions.

Additionally, the board approved a development agreement with Quiet Wood Development LLC for the Quiet Wood Subdivision, which will consist of 49 single-family lots. The agreement stipulates that the developer will bear all costs associated with the installation of public infrastructure, which will then be dedicated to the village at no cost.

In a notable move regarding compensation, the board discussed an amendment to the employment agreement for the village attorney, reflecting the rising costs of living and inflation since the attorney's hiring during the COVID-19 pandemic. The board expressed a strong desire to retain the attorney, citing his exemplary service.

Trustee Taggart introduced an ordinance to adjust the compensation for village board members, which has remained unchanged for over 25 years. The proposed changes include a pay increase to account for cumulative inflation and a 2% annual increase to ensure future compensation remains equitable. The adjustments will take effect in January 2027 for trustees and in April 2027 for the village president, aligning with state law that prohibits board members from raising their own pay during their term.

The discussions highlighted the importance of fair compensation to attract diverse candidates for public service, particularly as the costs associated with campaigning and serving can be significant. Board members emphasized that maintaining competitive compensation is crucial for encouraging community involvement and representation.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to improving governance processes and ensuring that public service remains a viable option for all residents.