The Boerne Charter Review Commission meeting on October 29, 2024, sparked significant discussions around the compensation of city council members, highlighting the need for potential adjustments to their stipends. Council members expressed a desire to revisit the long-standing compensation structure, which has remained unchanged since the original charter was established in 1995.

During the meeting, council members debated whether any increase in compensation should be determined by the council or put to a public vote. One member emphasized the importance of transparency, suggesting that any proposed changes should be presented to voters to ensure accountability. "If someone doesn't like the decision they make, they'll go to the ballot box," they stated, advocating for a democratic approach to compensation adjustments.

The conversation revealed that the current stipend, which has not been adjusted for decades, may not adequately reflect the rising costs of living. Council members discussed the possibility of increasing the stipend by around $100 to help cover expenses incurred during their service. However, they acknowledged that any changes would not take effect until after the next scheduled election, as stipulated in the charter.

The commission's discussions also touched on the historical context of the city's shift to single-member districts in 2012, which was seen as a significant change in governance. Members reflected on the recruitment challenges faced during that transition and how the current structure might influence future council dynamics.

As the meeting concluded, the council members recognized the need for further discussions during the upcoming budget process to explore the implications of adjusting their compensation. The outcome of these discussions could set a precedent for how elected officials in Boerne are compensated moving forward, ensuring that their roles remain viable and attractive to potential candidates.