For over three decades since the founding of the City of Susanville, the council members were true volunteers. Serving in such a position can be a thankless job at times. In 1936 it was the topic at hand. On April 14, 1936, voters not only were asked to vote for two new council members, but whether the city the council members should receive some form of minimal compensation for their time and effort. Of the 141 votes cast, it was approved to pay the council members with 82 yes; 53 against and 16 who declined to vote on the issue. The mayor would receive a sum of $30 a month and members of the council $20 a month.