Great Bend Ward 1 City Councilwoman Lindsey Krom-Craven suggested during the council meeting Monday night that offering benefits to council members might encourage more people to run for office. The idea is being taken under advisement by administration officials.

“When the publication came out for those running for County Commission versus City Council, I was asked if I had any ideas on why the County Commission has tons of people running and the City Council struggled to get just the ones who were sitting on the board (to file for office),” Krom-Craven said, “I was asked specifically whether it was the pay and benefits that the County Commission gets versus the city and I said that could be looked at.”

Her thought was to come up with some “financially responsible, low-cost, or even no-cost benefits” they could offer those who sit on the council. “That might serve as a little bit of an incentive to be involved,” she said.

She mentioned passes to the Wetlands Water Park or fitness club memberships, like those extended to other city employees.

It was noted that some time in the past, council members were given a stipend. But the practice was eliminated when council members declined accepting it, believing it went against the act of public service.

She also suggested offering agenda packets and documentation in an electronic format using a tablet device at meetings for those who might prefer that. “This would be just another alternative option for those of us that might find it easier.”

“I agree that’s possibly why nobody runs for office,” said Ward 4 Councilwoman Natalie Towns. “But some of it’s because people work and they don’t have the time, but the commissioners I know do get insurance and some kind of a wage.”

Sure, Towns said being on the council does take a people’s time. 

“I think that’s something you and I and (City Administrator Kendal Francis) could sit down and we could come up with some ideas and present back to council and just see where that goes,” Mayor Cody Schmidt said.