Commissioners keep 4% COLA, defer full salary-study implementation until study complete

San Patricio County commissioners on Dec. 29 approved a 4% cost-of-living increase for county employees effective Jan. 1 and agreed to advance a limited set of reclassifications and step increases now while a comprehensive salary study by MAG is completed.

Patrick, the county staff member who briefed the court, said the study is not finished and that MAG will interview department heads in January to finalize job questionnaires and recommendations. "The study is still not done," Patrick said, adding that the consultant will meet individually with department heads next month.

Patrick gave preliminary figures and explained funding trade-offs: approving all department-requested reclassifications now would use the contingency set aside in the 2026 budget and could reduce funds available to implement the full study recommendations later. He said the list of reclassifications presented during budget time totaled roughly $432,000–$435,000, while the court’s contingency for salary adjustments is limited. "If we do those reclassifications, the rest of the county employees would only get the 4%," Patrick said.

Commissioner Gillespie moved that the court proceed with the reclassifications already submitted and take care of those employees now, while continuing the salary-study process toward an implementation discussion in July; Commissioner (S10) seconded the motion. The court called the question and the motion passed by voice vote.

In a separate motion, the court approved a countywide 4% increase for 2026 pay scales, adding the 4% to step 1 and shifting the pay scale for the coming year. "What we do is we have that 4% cost of living for everybody across the board," Patrick said, describing the county’s consistent practice over recent years to keep pay scales aligned with the market. That motion passed unanimously.

What happens next: MAG will complete its review in January, department heads will have an opportunity to confirm or update job information, and commissioners said they expect to discuss full implementation timing during the 2026 budget process. The court asked staff to return with the detailed list of employees recommended for immediate increases at the next meeting.