NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A proposed resolution going before Metro Council Tuesday would partially base the compensation of council members on their attendance at meetings.
The resolution was sponsored by at-large council member Charlie Tygard, who said it is designed to increase accountability.
“We’ve had a problem on and off and it’s getting worse at the end of the term, of council members not coming to committee meetings,” said Tygard. “Constituents need to expect a level of participation from council members.”
Currently, council members make an annual salary of $15,000. Tygard’s resolution would decrease that salary to $7,500 but offer $300 for each Council meeting attended, and $100 for each regular council committee meeting and budget hearing attended. The maximum salary earned would still be $15,000.
“You’d still make the same salary if you attend your meetings, but if you choose not to participate, or sit on the sidelines, then you won’t be paid as much,” said Tygard.
He said attendance at Metro Council meetings had ranged from 100 percent to 72 percent, but numbers drop off more substantially in committee meetings. He said some council members haven’t attended any in the last year.
The resolution faces an up or down vote at Tuesday’s Metro Council meeting.
