Escambia board discusses raising superintendent pay to state recommendation; counsel says board can renegotiate contract
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Summary
Board members at the May workshop debated whether to raise the superintendent’s salary to the state-recommended level for a district of Escambia's size. Board attorney told members they may mutually amend the contract; several trustees signaled support but asked staff to consider budget timing and impacts.
Board members raised equity concerns at the May workshop and discussed whether to increase the superintendent’s salary to match a state salary recommendation for districts of Escambia County’s size.
Board member Paul Fetzko (listed in workshop as Fesco/Fetzko) said the state’s guideline for an elected superintendent of a district this size was $205,000 and called for equity across district roles. Several trustees expressed support for considering an increase and asked staff to evaluate timing and budget effects.
Board attorney Miss Odom told the board: “You are free to negotiate salary with an appointed superintendent,” explaining the board could mutually amend an existing contract and add salary or other provisions if it was the board’s will. Trustees discussed whether a change should be handled immediately or during contract-renewal discussions and asked staff to model fiscal impacts for the June budget process.
Superintendent Bennett spoke briefly about continuing the work of the district and said he and his team would continue to focus on students during any compensation discussion. No motion was made at the workshop; several trustees said they would bring a motion at the next regular meeting if at least three members supported an amendment to the superintendent’s contract.