Commissioners recommend 3% pay increase as basis for 2027 budget

County finance staff presented preliminary cost estimates for longevity and potential salary increases as the county prepares the 2027 budget. Jennifer (speaker 8) said longevity costs for the general fund would be around $200,000; a 1% increase would add about $450,000 and a 5% increase was estimated near $2,200,000. Preliminary revenue estimates indicated a budget shortfall of approximately $4,400,000 under current assumptions.

Following discussion, Commissioner (speaker 4) moved and Commissioner (speaker 6) seconded a recommendation that the county use a 3% pay increase as the basis for salary schedules in the 2027 budget book. The motion carried by voice vote.

The recommendation establishes an initial planning assumption for department salary statements and does not finalize appropriations; commissioners noted they could revisit and adjust the recommendation during the budget process in August and at department hearings.