Officials weigh phased pay increases after study finds county salaries below market

The Southampton County Board of Supervisors on July 28 reviewed a PayPoint HR compensation study that found many county positions pay below the market median and directed staff to return with costed options.

Dr. Rick Campbell, the consultant who led the study, said the analysis combined job classification, organizational structure and market pay comparators. He told the board "most of the departments are substantially below that middle of the market," and showed options ranging from the 40th to the 60th percentile. As an example, he said an entry-level detention position currently paid about $49,153 would be at a grade‑12 market minimum of roughly $53,362 at the 50th percentile.

Board members stressed the importance of follow-through. Chairman Edwards asked that staff provide detailed 50th‑ and 60th‑percentile costings and make the materials available before the next meeting so affected employees and the public can review them. "There's no way we can make a decision on this tonight," Edwards said, urging the board to allow public input.

Supervisors discussed phasing options; Dr. Campbell and county staff said a phased approach over one to three years is typical to preserve flexibility. Staff noted the FY27 budget set aside $590,000 to begin the phase‑in and that the board could use those funds toward an initial implementation tranche.

The board did not take a final vote on implementation levels. Instead, it directed staff to present specific numbers for 50th- and 60th‑percentile scenarios and related financing options at the next meeting, and to publish those materials in advance for public comment.