Garfield County Sheriff proposes salary increases amid staffing challenges

Concerns over law enforcement recruitment and retention took center stage at the Garfield Board of County Commissioners work session on April 8, 2025. A significant discussion highlighted the alarming trend of a 30% decline in law enforcement officers, attributed to factors such as qualified immunity and competitive salaries from other agencies.

Officials noted that many officers are leaving for positions in firefighting or emergency medical services, seeking to avoid personal liability. This exodus has created a ripple effect in rural areas like Garfield County, where agencies struggle to maintain adequate staffing levels. Despite a 33% wage increase over recent years, the county's starting pay for law enforcement positions remains uncompetitive compared to neighboring agencies.

The meeting revealed that Garfield County is lagging behind in entry-level pay for sworn positions, with a particular emphasis on the need for adjustments to prevent pay compression. Officials discussed the importance of maintaining competitive salaries to retain officers, especially as turnover rates indicate that 51% of officers leave due to compensation issues alone.

In response to these challenges, the county is considering a series of pay adjustments across various ranks, including a proposed 12% increase for deputy positions and a 15% increase for sergeants. However, concerns were raised about the sustainability of these increases within the current budget constraints.

The discussion also touched on the legal protections available to officers, including liability insurance and legal coverage through a partnership with a Denver law firm. These measures are seen as crucial for supporting officers in their roles and enhancing recruitment efforts.

As Garfield County navigates these pressing issues, officials emphasized the need for ongoing assessments of compensation structures to ensure they remain competitive and effective in attracting and retaining qualified law enforcement personnel. The anticipated outcomes of these discussions could significantly impact the county's ability to maintain public safety and community trust in law enforcement.