Whitehead won't receive Canton alderman paycheck

Dr. Shannon Whitehead will not receive a paycheck when she takes office next week as Ward 2 alderman in Canton.

Because Whitehead currently serves as superintendent of Philadelphia Public Schools, a Madison County Circuit Court order issued Monday states she cannot be paid or reimbursed in her role on the city board.

WLBT reported that under the state Constitution, Whitehead is prohibited from receiving payment for holding both public positions.

Article 1, Section 2 of the state Constitution outlines the separation of powers among government branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. It states that no individual or group assigned to one branch may exercise powers belonging to another.

The role of superintendent, whether elected or appointed, falls under the executive branch. Meanwhile, a board of aldermen serves within the legislative branch, creating a violation of the separation of powers doctrine.

“The court finds that because Dr. Whitehead currently holds office as school superintendent, she would be considered a de facto officer of the Canton Board of Aldermen, effective July 1,” Circuit Judge Bradley Mills wrote, according to WLBT.

Judge Mills added, “Although her official acts as alderman of Ward 2 would be valid acts, she would not be entitled to claim compensation or be reimbursed for travel expenses.”