Commission debate stalls pay ordinance; motion withdrawn and measure tabled for workshop

Commissioner Phillip Shipley introduced an ordinance on March 7 to establish compensation for the mayor and members of the Board of Commissioners, saying, "I feel it is time that the Commissioners are paid." The proposal prompted questions about timing and fairness, and Shipley withdrew his initial motion.

Vice‑Mayor Coleman said he had concerns about approving pay while the city manager and city attorney were absent and argued that any effective date should start in 2026 so all commissioners would be treated the same. Commissioner Keith said state or local rules mean current commissioners would still not be eligible immediately, and Mayor Everett and Vice‑Mayor Coleman discussed aligning an effective date to avoid unequal treatment.

After discussion, Vice‑Mayor Coleman moved to table the ordinance until the next meeting after a workshop is held; Commissioner Shipley seconded the motion. The motion to table passed with unanimous ayes. The commission did not adopt a compensation schedule at this meeting and directed further discussion in a workshop setting before taking action.

The record notes the ordinance was presented as a first reading and that the effect of any adopted pay would be delayed until after the November election and swearing in of newly elected commissioners, with commissioners debating a later 2026 start date to ensure uniform application.