IT resignation prompts council call to pursue wage increases; sheriff warns staffing shortfall if casino arrives

County President Richard Shipe informed the council Feb. 12 that an information‑technology employee had resigned. Shipe said the employee had contributed expertise across multiple county systems including support for the Sheriff’s Office, the Spillman records system and 9‑1‑1 backup.

Sheriff RJ Robinson told council the position’s duties mean the Sheriff’s Office would need to hire at least one full‑time technician to replace the departed employee if those duties remained in the sheriff’s purview. Robinson said the county will miss the employee’s knowledge and work performed beyond a single job description.

Council member Ken Shelton urged that the council start conversations now—ahead of the budget process—about raising wages and other steps to retain qualified staff. Jim Getz supported Shelton and said the county frequently trains employees who then leave for higher pay elsewhere. Getz added that although he has heard community interest in locating a casino in Steuben County, the Sheriff cautioned that the county currently lacks facilities and staffing capacity to absorb the likely increase in calls and incidents without additional resources.

Shipe said he will consult the county commissioners about whether they are willing to pursue pay increases and where funds might be found. The council did not take formal action at the special session beyond directing discussion.

Why it matters: The loss of a technical employee who supported multiple mission‑critical systems raises short‑term operational risk for county IT, law enforcement and 9‑1‑1 backup; council members signaled intent to examine wage and retention options ahead of the budget cycle.