Worcester County officials are considering a significant investment in a salary survey aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of county positions. During a budget work session on May 13, 2025, the commissioners discussed a proposed $50,000 allocation for an external salary survey that would assess the county's pay structure against neighboring jurisdictions. This initiative is seen as crucial for retaining dedicated employees who have expressed concerns about leaving for better-paying opportunities.

Human Resources Director Stacy outlined that the current salary scale has not been updated since February 2020, indicating a pressing need for a comprehensive review. The survey would provide a baseline for understanding salary competitiveness across all county positions, including those in departments like the sheriff's office and libraries. While there is no guarantee that the county will implement changes based on the survey results, the data would offer valuable insights for future decision-making.

The commissioners acknowledged the importance of this survey, particularly in light of recent discussions about the sheriff's department budget, which has seen substantial increases over the past few years. Sheriff Matt Crisafulli emphasized the urgency of addressing starting salaries to prevent an exodus of officers to better-paying agencies. He noted that the average starting salary for law enforcement in the region is around $63,644, and without adjustments, the county risks losing experienced personnel.

In addition to the salary survey, the budget session also touched on various departmental budgets, including potential fee increases for environmental programs and development review. The commissioners are expected to continue deliberating these budgetary matters in the coming weeks, with a focus on ensuring fair compensation for county employees while balancing the needs of the community. The outcome of these discussions will play a critical role in shaping the county's workforce and service delivery in the future.