Pretrial administrator urges pay raise, cites training and certification gap with sheriff’s office job

The pretrial misdemeanor probation administrator asked the Big Horn County commissioners to raise the position’s pay, arguing the role now requires specialized education, state certification and extensive program administration.

The administrator said the position requires a four-year degree and state post‑board law enforcement certification, and that responsibilities have expanded to include program development, interagency coordination and independent public‑safety decision making. "I thank the commission, for increasing it to a to a level 8," the administrator said while pressing that the pay should reflect the work performed (SEG 016–019).

Why it matters: county staff said the current comparator used — the sheriff’s office manager — has lower education and certification requirements, producing a substantial pay gap. The administrator said aligning compensation would recognize the program’s role in reducing jail stays and managing risk in the community.

Commissioners asked follow-up questions about grant prospects and program scope. The administrator proposed a public open house in mid‑to‑late October to educate residents and local partners about the program and its value to the justice system.