BVEA president thanks district for contract, urges phased approach to AB 1390 pay authority

McKenzie, identified in public comment as president of the Bear Valley Education Association (BVEA), opened by thanking the board for a recent contract and its inclusion of a $3,000 medical cap and increased salary rates. "The recent contract agreement, including the historic $3,000 medical cap, contract agreement with increased salary rates and bonus has sent a powerful message to our educators," McKenzie said, adding that the settlement signaled the district values its certificated and classified staff.

McKenzie acknowledged the legislature's passage of Assembly Bill 1390 and said the law creates new board-compensation authority, but urged a cautious, compromise approach. "To bridge this gap, I want to ask you to consider a creative compromise of accepting a portion of the allotted amount allowed under AB 1390 with a potential for modest percentage increases in the coming years aligned with the district's ADA," McKenzie told the board. The argument was framed as balancing fair compensation for trustees with maintaining public perception and fiscal restraint.

The public-comment speaker also emphasized partnership with the district: "BVDA wants to stand by you in return. Let us show our community what true balanced leadership looks like." The comment came before the board's extended discussion on adopting the maximum monthly stipend authorized by AB 1390.