Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Joyner rejects salary increase

MARCIA LANE
marcia.lane@staugustine.com
Publication Date: 08/12/09

St. Johns County School Superintendent Joe Joyner once again received glowing reviews from the District School Board but said he would not accept any increase in his base salary at Tuesday's meeting.

This is the third year he has rejected an increase in base salary, citing financial drops in state funding that have caused the district to repeatedly cut back.

Joyner turned down a merit pay raise of almost 10 percent because of funding cuts.

Joyner's base salary is $143,663.27. He receives several additional benefits, including a deferred compensation plan whereby the district makes annual contributions of 8 percent of his base salary, $600 per month, 18 vacation days a year and $600 a month for automobile and expense allowances.

He also receives life and health insurance.

Board members were indignant about a strong recommendation from the Florida Legislature that superintendents should receive a 5 percent reduction in pay.

District 1 Board Member Bev Slough said it would be "slap in the face" to lower Joyner's salary, noting the district's number one standing in test scores.

"I refuse to even consider lowering (the salary)," Slough said.

District 4 Board Member Bill Fehling said it was another case of the Florida Legislature "trying to take control" when they were hundreds of miles away "assuming that they know best."

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