In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the compensation of the medical director for the sheriff's office corrections, highlighting a significant pay disparity compared to similar positions in neighboring counties. Currently, the medical director receives $1,000 a month, which has gradually increased over the years. However, a review of comparable counties revealed that Josephine County pays its medical director $9,000 monthly for 11 hours of work per week, raising concerns about the adequacy of the current salary.

Commissioners expressed the need to ensure competitive compensation to attract and retain qualified personnel, particularly as the workload for the medical director continues to grow due to increasing mandates related to public health and the opioid crisis. One commissioner emphasized the importance of budgeting appropriately for salary increases rather than relying on salary savings, which could lead to future financial complications.

The discussion also touched on the medical director's employment status, with suggestions to track hours worked more accurately to assess the need for potential benefits. The board ultimately agreed to move forward with a motion to grant a salary increase for the medical director, pending a thorough review of the budget to identify funding sources. The proposed increase is set to take effect on September 1, contingent on the completion of this budgetary work.

This meeting underscores the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in balancing fair compensation for essential roles while maintaining fiscal responsibility.