Okeechobee County approves salary increase for District 19 Medical Examiner

The Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners held a regular session on March 13, 2025, where they discussed a significant salary increase for the District 19 Medical Examiner. The board considered a recommendation to raise the Medical Examiner's salary from $367,000 to $494,997, reflecting a 27.8% increase. This adjustment comes after a salary survey indicated that comparable positions in other jurisdictions command higher salaries, with some reaching around $500,000.

The county currently shares medical examiner expenses with Saint Lucie, Martin, and River counties, with Okeechobee's portion being approximately 7.04%. The annual increase for Okeechobee County would amount to $12,184, but for the remainder of the fiscal year, the cost would be $4,061. The board emphasized the importance of retaining qualified personnel in this unique and demanding role, noting that the Medical Examiner had received interest from other locations.

Commissioners discussed the potential for funding the salary increase through the economic development fund, highlighting the critical nature of the services provided by the Medical Examiner in attracting residents and businesses to the community. The motion to approve the salary increase was unanimously passed, contingent on similar approvals from the other participating counties.

In addition to the salary discussion, the meeting included the introduction of Jessica Bizera as the new special projects manager for the county. The board's decisions reflect ongoing efforts to ensure essential services are maintained while navigating budgetary constraints.