Bonus controversy at the Norfolk CSB

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - There was a heated discussion at the Norfolk Community Services Board Tuesday night surrounding the executive director's bonus.

Board member Henry Conde voiced concerns that only four members, instead of the full 15, came up with Maureen Womack's $21,700 bonus.

Conde abstained when the entire board approved Womack's bonus on top of her $155,000 salary last month.

On Tuesday, Conde asked the 15 member board to hold off paying her.

He wanted a presentation on how the smaller group came up with the figure, but his motion to delay was voted down.

WAVY.com asked him about the public's right to know. "Well not only the public, but even the employees of the CSB who are probably doing a great job and we should be proud of them, but probably aren't going to see any bonus," said Conde.

Those four members of the board met without disclosing the meeting to the public.

That's a violation of the Freedom of Information Act, since the CSB is funded by tax dollars.

Chairman Dr. Lewis Taylor apologized for the mistake.