Mike, the problem with your A/C compressor sounds like a bad pulley bearing, which can be replaced in most cases without removing the compressor and having to recharge the system. If the clutch hub turns, but the pulley that the belt runs on will not turn, the pulley bearing is bad and not the compressor.
It can be replaced by removing the clutch (puller and installer required), removing the snap ring and removing the pulley (puller and installer required). Drive out the old bearing, drive in a new one and reinstall.
Most A/C shops will probably do the job for about an hours lobor, or you can do it yourself if you can borrow the pullers from the local parts house.
Gerald