During the Dawson County Government's 2025 Budget Hearing, a poignant plea for equitable staff compensation took center stage. A department head, reflecting on 37 years of service, expressed deep concern over employee salaries, emphasizing the need for adjustments to align with similar positions in the county. "I feel like I've done a good job in comparing numbers," they stated, advocating for fair treatment of staff who have been underpaid.

The department head shared personal anecdotes, highlighting the challenges of balancing administrative duties with the need to connect with clients, particularly seniors. They noted the emotional toll of attending frequent funerals for clients, underscoring the changing demographics and needs of the community. "Our clients have definitely changed over the last few years," they remarked, pointing out the varying needs of individuals aged 60 to 95.

In a heartfelt conclusion, the speaker thanked the board for their consideration and urged them to recognize the hard work of staff members. "I just want the staff to be treated equally," they implored, as they navigated the complexities of budget discussions and the realities of county governance. The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of maintaining morale and support for county employees while addressing budgetary constraints.