Rock County ratifies labor agreement with Deputy Sheriffs Association and approves wage adjustments

The Rock County Board convened on December 12, 2024, to address several key agenda items, primarily focused on labor agreements and wage adjustments for county employees.

The meeting began with a roll call vote on a previous motion, which passed with 24 votes in favor, 2 against, and 3 absentees. Following this, the board moved to discuss the ratification of the 2024-2025 labor agreement between Rock County and the Deputy Sheriffs Association. Supervisor Schwartz introduced the resolution, highlighting that the agreement includes a 6% wage increase effective June 1, 2024, and a further 2% increase on January 1, 2025. The agreement has already been ratified by the membership of the Deputy Sheriffs Association. The motion to approve this agreement was passed unanimously with 26 votes in favor and no opposition.

Next, the board addressed the approval of the 2025 base wage rates for all employees, excluding represented law enforcement personnel. Supervisor Towne made the motion, which was seconded by Supervisor Gorman. Amy, a representative from the county, explained that this resolution provides a 3% across-the-board wage increase for all non-bargained employee groups as included in the 2025 budget. During the discussion, Supervisor Zay raised concerns regarding the implications of recent news about Act 10, which may affect collective bargaining rights in the future. He inquired about the potential for amending wage agreements should new bargaining units emerge. The response indicated that if Act 10 were to be fully reenacted, the county would need to reestablish bargaining sessions for all collective bargaining groups, which could significantly alter current policies and procedures.

The motion to approve the wage rates was also passed with 24 votes in favor, 2 against, and 3 absent. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and accepted without further discussion.

Overall, the meeting highlighted significant advancements in labor agreements and wage adjustments for Rock County employees, while also acknowledging the uncertain future of collective bargaining rights under Act 10.