Flowery Branch City Council wrestles with per diem pay idea | GainesvilleTimes.com

City Council members Thursday night debated whether the mayor and council members should receive per diem pay for meetings and appearances beyond regularly scheduled meetings.

By a 3-2 vote, members passed the first reading of an amendment to the city charter to allow such a move, but it was not without its detractors. Discussion will continue before its next agenda appearance Aug. 17.

If approved, the per diem pay likely would not extend to informational or internal meetings.

The charter authorizes a fixed monthly pay amount to the mayor and council members for performance of their duties, including attending meetings on behalf of the city.

If passed, the new ordinance would amend the charter and authorize the city to pay each $50 per diem, paid monthly, and not to exceed five meetings per month.

via Flowery Branch City Council wrestles with per diem pay idea.