Pueblo County employees are expressing concerns over their compensation following a recent Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting held on January 7, 2025. The board approved a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 2.8%, which many employees feel is insufficient given the rising cost of living in the area.

During the meeting, employees voiced their frustrations, highlighting that the COLA does not adequately reflect the financial realities faced by those earning less than $100,000 annually. They pointed out that with expenses such as rent, car payments, and utilities, the adjustment falls short of providing meaningful relief. One employee noted that the average livable wage in Pueblo was significantly higher than what many county workers earn, suggesting that the county should not be at the bottom of wage scales for similar positions.

Commissioners acknowledged the concerns raised, emphasizing the need to operate within a flat budget that limits their ability to offer more substantial raises. They expressed appreciation for the hard work of county employees, particularly those in customer-facing roles, and reiterated their commitment to providing essential services to the community. However, they also stressed the importance of fiscal responsibility and the challenges posed by previous financial decisions that have constrained the current budget.

The discussion highlighted a broader issue regarding public service compensation, with commissioners recognizing that many county employees are underpaid and often work multiple jobs to make ends meet. They expressed a desire to explore new approaches to employee compensation in the future, including potential non-monetary benefits.

As the meeting concluded, commissioners encouraged ongoing dialogue with employees, urging them to continue voicing their concerns and suggestions. The board remains committed to finding ways to improve employee compensation and working conditions while balancing the county's financial obligations.