Walla Walla County sets 2026 pay guidance for non‑represented staff: 2.16% COLA and $1,600 benefit contribution

During a Dec. 22 meeting, the Walla Walla County Board of Commissioners gave staff direction on salary adjustments for non‑represented employees for 2026: use 80% of the Consumer Price Index–U (2.16%) for cost‑of‑living adjustments and set the county contribution for employee health benefits at $1,600.

Clerk/finance staff explained the process is normally tied to union negotiations but that, because contracts remain unsettled, the county needed guidance for non‑represented positions so payroll and auditor programming can be prepared. The staff member said the 2.16% figure is the usual 80% CPI‑U formula the county applies when not governed by a contract.

Commissioners said the one‑year arrangement lets employees keep expected contributions for 2026 while making clear the county will revisit the benefit contribution in 2027 when savings from a new insurance carrier could reduce the county’s share. "I think that number needs to stay the same for the first year," Commissioner Fulmer said, describing employees’ reliance on the prior guidance; several commissioners agreed they would revisit the amount next year.

Staff will prepare a formal resolution for the board to adopt next week so the auditor's office can implement payroll and benefits programming.