In a pivotal discussion at the Lander County Commissioners' meeting on April 24, 2025, the spotlight was on the proposed salary increase for the General Justice of the Peace, Spencer Roberts. The meeting, which saw a range of opinions, ultimately focused on the need to adjust the salary to reflect the responsibilities and challenges associated with the role.

Judge Roberts presented a compelling case for a salary increase from the current $71,000, arguing that it does not align with the demands of the position. He highlighted that historically, the Justice of the Peace salary included an additional $10,000 over other elected officials' pay due to the unique responsibilities involved, such as making significant legal decisions and undergoing extensive training. Roberts referenced salary comparisons with neighboring counties, noting that Humboldt County's Justice of the Peace earns approximately $94,000, while Elko's salary is even higher.

The discussion revealed a complex backdrop of salary history and legislative changes. Roberts pointed out that the previous Justice of the Peace earned around $96,000, and he argued that inflation and the increasing cost of living necessitate a reevaluation of his compensation. He emphasized the risks associated with the role, including threats to personal safety, which further justified his request for a raise.

Commissioners engaged in a robust debate, weighing the merits of Roberts' request against the county's budget constraints and the precedent of equal pay for elected officials. Some commissioners expressed concern about the significant percentage increase being proposed, while others acknowledged the importance of attracting qualified candidates for the position.

A potential compromise emerged as discussions turned to Senate Bill 116, which could standardize salaries for elected officials, including the Justice of the Peace. The suggestion was made to approve Roberts' salary increase contingent upon the bill's passage, which would streamline future discussions and align his pay with that of other elected officials.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners recognized the importance of addressing the salary issue promptly, with many agreeing that the current compensation does not reflect the responsibilities of the role. The outcome of this discussion could set a significant precedent for how Lander County values its elected officials and their contributions to the community.