Here's a novelty: East Dundee trustees can forgo pay

East Dundee board members and commissioners may now opt out of receiving payment for their efforts.

Village trustees unanimously approved an ordinance this week that allows board and commission members to renounce compensation for any period of time.

Although some village officials already have chosen to relinquish their pay, they and the village still are responsible for any taxes incurred, even if the check is never cashed, Village Trustee Michael Ruffulo said.

Now, if a trustee or commissioner opts out of receiving a payment, the village will not issue a check.

"For awhile we have been saying that we need to do our part in cutting back," Ruffulo said. "But not cashing the check didn't accomplish what we were aiming for. We want to set an example and show that we are serious about our attempts to cut back."

Village Administrator Frank Koehler said the amount paid to elected and appointed officials' pay is nominal, but added some trustees wanted the option to give back their pay.

The village president receives $100 per meeting, while trustees receive $75 per meeting. The liquor commissioner also receives $100 and commissioners earn $35 per meeting. Chairs of the planning and zoning and police commissions each earn $25 per meeting, while commissioners earn $20 for each meeting.