Clay County sets 2026 salaries for sheriff and county attorney; commissioners accept 4% COLA
December 23, 2025 | Clay County, Minnesota
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The Clay County Board approved a package of compensation resolutions affecting elected officials for 2026.
Resolution 2025‑38 set the Clay County sheriff’s minimum salary and established Sheriff Mark Empting’s 2026 salary at $137,364. The board discussed the county’s 12‑step elected officials grid, compression issues and how the change adjusts step 12 for those offices.
Resolution 2025‑39 set the county attorney minimum at $155,640 and established County Attorney Brian Melton’s 2026 salary at $203,542.25. Commissioners referenced statewide increases for public defenders and described workload pressures and retention concerns as reasons for the adjustment.
Resolution 2025‑40 set county commissioners’ 2026 salary at $40,822.51 and established a $100 per‑meeting per diem (maximum $100 per day). Commissioners debated whether to accept the 4% cost‑of‑living bump; one commissioner proposed an amendment to decline the COLA, but the original motion passed by voice vote.
All three resolutions were adopted by motion and voice votes during the meeting. Commissioners emphasized public‑safety workload and the need to remain competitive in the regional job market as factors in the decisions.
Resolution 2025‑38 set the Clay County sheriff’s minimum salary and established Sheriff Mark Empting’s 2026 salary at $137,364. The board discussed the county’s 12‑step elected officials grid, compression issues and how the change adjusts step 12 for those offices.
Resolution 2025‑39 set the county attorney minimum at $155,640 and established County Attorney Brian Melton’s 2026 salary at $203,542.25. Commissioners referenced statewide increases for public defenders and described workload pressures and retention concerns as reasons for the adjustment.
Resolution 2025‑40 set county commissioners’ 2026 salary at $40,822.51 and established a $100 per‑meeting per diem (maximum $100 per day). Commissioners debated whether to accept the 4% cost‑of‑living bump; one commissioner proposed an amendment to decline the COLA, but the original motion passed by voice vote.
All three resolutions were adopted by motion and voice votes during the meeting. Commissioners emphasized public‑safety workload and the need to remain competitive in the regional job market as factors in the decisions.
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