The Manassas City Council meeting on June 23, 2025, focused on discussions regarding stipends for various city commissions and the implications of budget constraints on these payments. Council members deliberated on the potential restoration of stipends that had previously been provided to certain boards, including the Planning Commission and the Airport Commission.

During the meeting, it was noted that funding for stipends was not included in the recently adopted budget. Council members were urged to consider any changes to stipend allocations during the upcoming fiscal year 2027 budget discussions. The conversation highlighted the ongoing challenges in recruiting volunteers for city commissions, particularly the Planning Commission, which has faced a long-standing vacancy.

Council members expressed differing views on the necessity and fairness of providing stipends. Some argued that stipends could help attract qualified candidates, while others raised concerns about the precedent it sets and the potential for dissatisfaction among other boards that do not receive compensation. The discussion also touched on the practices of neighboring jurisdictions, with some members advocating for a more uniform policy across the city.

The council acknowledged the importance of volunteer contributions to the city but emphasized the need for a thorough discussion before making any decisions regarding stipends. The meeting concluded with a consensus to revisit the topic in future sessions, ensuring that all council members could participate in the decision-making process.