During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding a substantial pay increase for the county administrator, Beth Albert, as she approaches retirement. The assembly expressed surprise upon receiving a request for funding to support a raise that had not been publicly announced prior to the meeting.

Assembly members noted that discussions about a new contract had occurred, but the specifics of the pay increase were unexpected. The county administrator's salary had risen from $165,000 at the start of her tenure to $205,000 in her new contract, marking a 20% increase over three years. This latest contract, which covers only the last six months of her service, includes a $26,500 raise compared to the previous year’s salary of $178,500.

Questions were raised about the justification for such a significant increase at this stage of her career, particularly in light of the county's proposed fiscal year 2025 budget, which reflects a modest 1.9% increase and emphasizes cost-cutting measures across departments. Assembly members requested further information regarding the rationale behind the raise, its impact on Albert's retirement benefits, and a detailed breakdown of her salary and expenses over her tenure.

The assembly unanimously declined to approve the funding request for the raise, indicating a need for more transparency and understanding of the circumstances surrounding the pay increase. The discussions highlight ongoing concerns about fiscal responsibility and governance within the county as it navigates budgetary constraints while addressing personnel compensation.