OLIVER COUNTY COMMISSION SPECIAL PROCEEDINGS were called to order at 1:35 PM with all members present.
The purpose of the meeting was to address concerns from employees regarding pay rates and salaries.
Comments were received from employees about not feeling appreciated for the work they do and for the length of time they have been employed and/or have served the county. New employees are beginning to be hired at rates higher than current employees.
Patrick Waters addressed the Commissioners in regards to the Legal Assistant position that was open and advertised. Lauren Eggers was offered the position. She would be starting at $20 per hour, working 20 hours per week. Patrick explained that Lauren would no longer be employed by Heartland Law office, but instead would be solely employed by Oliver County as the State’s Attorney’s Legal Assistant.
Commissioner Berger addressed the employees in the meeting room, stating that he respects and appreciates the work they do.
Blake Wilkens moved and Lee Husfloen seconded the motion to move into Executive Session. A roll call vote was held. Blake Wilkens-Aye, Darrell Berger Nay, Lee Husfloen-Aye.
The Commission moved into Executive Session at 2:00 pm.
The meeting was called back into regular session at 2:17 pm.
Some discussion was held on changes to the budget if the Commission chooses to adjust any wages. The budget can be amended, if there are changes needing to be made.
Linda Nelson suggested that a third-party salary study is conducted to help the county and commissioners see where wages compare to other counties and similar jobs.
Darrell Berger moved and Blake Wilkens seconded the motion to allow the Auditor to look into companies that do salary studies and obtain estimates on cost before moving forward. All in favor, none opposed; motion carried.
The meeting adjourned at 2:29 PM.
The next meeting of the Oliver County Commission will be at 8:00 AM, Tuesday, March 5th, 2024 at the Oliver County Courthouse meeting room.
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Jaden Schmidt, Oliver County Auditor Lee Husfloen, Chairman of the Board