In a recent government meeting, the Santa County Commission approved a new collective bargaining agreement between the Sheriff's Deputies Association and the county, marking a significant step in addressing staffing challenges within the sheriff's office. The agreement, which was negotiated in under three months, is set to replace the existing contract starting from the first full pay period in July and will run for three years, expiring in June 2027.

Key highlights of the agreement include substantial wage increases for various ranks within the sheriff's department, aimed at remaining competitive with neighboring organizations. The new contract also modifies retirement benefits, increasing the county's contribution to employee retirement accounts to 75% in response to state-mandated increases.

Additional changes include enhancements to the clothing allowance, which will rise from $590 to $650 annually, and adjustments to the internal affairs process to introduce clearer timelines. The agreement also expands the referral bonus program to incentivize current employees to refer candidates for any county job, not just those within the sheriff's office.

The sheriff expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort between the bargaining unit and management, emphasizing the importance of addressing compensation to retain and attract talent in light of competitive pressures from state police salary increases. The contract aims to foster a more structured and supportive work environment for deputies while ensuring the county's operational needs are met.