Washington County Salary Commission to Hold Meeting to Review Public Input on Elected Official Pay

Washington County residents voiced significant concerns regarding proposed salary increases for elected officials during a public hearing last month and will review these concerns during a meeting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The Washington County Salary Study Commission, mandated by law to review and propose salary adjustments for specific elected county positions and the liquor board every four years, heard testimony from the public on potential pay raises. The commission is tasked with evaluating factors such as the responsibilities, workload, and comparable roles in similarly sized jurisdictions when making its recommendations.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) plays a crucial role in the commission’s salary adjustment considerations. For the current review cycle, the commission utilized the 2021 CPI figure and applied it to each subsequent year through 2025, resulting in an preliminary recommended increase of 8.14 percent for elected officials, except for treasurer. It was noted that any salary increases approved by the Board of County Commissioners for elected officials would not become effective until after the next election. However, for positions not held by elected officials, pay adjustments approved by ordinance would take effect immediately. The commission stressed that public comments should focus on future salary considerations rather than the performance of current officeholders.

During the public hearing, several residents expressed strong opposition to proposed salary increases for county commissioners. Concerns were raised that elected officials are currently perceived as working fewer hours and engaging less with the public, with some attributing this to a shift away from in-person citizen participation in meetings. One resident argued that current policies have reduced the workload and public involvement of commissioners, suggesting that a pay decrease would be more appropriate until these policies change and in-person citizen feedback is restored. Another speaker echoed this sentiment, stating that proposed salary increases are unjustified given the perceived decrease in work and public accessibility.

Further commentary questioned the proposed hourly rate for commissioners, with calculations suggesting figures upwards of $500 per hour based on the number of meetings held. This was contrasted with the compensation of other public servants, such as school board members, and professional services, arguing that the commissioners’ compensation is disproportionately high, especially when public feedback is perceived as being ignored. The legality of certain meeting procedures and past violations of the Open Meetings Act were also raised as reasons to withhold pay increases.

Some participants suggested that any salary adjustments for elected officials should be deferred until after the upcoming election. This approach, it was argued, would ensure that any pay raises are tied to demonstrable public service and responsiveness from newly elected officials who may implement policies and procedures better reflecting public opinion. The commission acknowledged all testimony provided and indicated that it would be reviewed at their next meeting.

For those who wish to observe the Washington County Salary Study Commission’s next meeting, if will be on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in the County Administration Complex, located at 100 West Washington Street, on the Second Floor Workshop. The agenda for this session includes a welcome and introductions, approval of minutes, a review of the public testimony received, and adjournment.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from Washington County Government

---