There is a cost to democracy.
Those who occupy municipal offices or sit on school boards are entitled to and receive remuneration.
According to the most recent Statement of Financial Information (SOFI) reports, filed by individual communities, regions and districts, in 2021 the mayor’s position in Princeton earned $24,083, and the position of councillor was paid $12,042.
In Keremeos, which has approximately half the population of Princeton, the position of mayor earned $11,931, and a councillor position paid $7,498.
Summerland has a population close to three times Princeton’s, and its mayor position paid $37,454, with councillor positions earning $16,854.
The position of director of Area H in the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS), which encompasses rural Princeton, Coalmont and Tulameen, was paid $36,133.
The position of RDOS director for Area G, which includes rural Keremeos, Ollala and Hedley, was paid $35,716.
In Nicola-Similkameen School District 58, covering Princeton and Merritt, the position of trustee garnered $17,999 last year.
Okanagan-Similkameen School District 53 includes Cawston, Hedley, Keremeos, Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Osoyoos. In 2021 the position of trustee paid between $10,161 and $13,307.
Related: Some important changes for the Oct. 15 municipal election in Princeton
Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email:andrea.demeer@similkameenspotlight.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.