Cook County budget hearings address employee salaries and staffing needs

Cooke County officials are prioritizing employee retention and salary equity as they navigate budget hearings for the upcoming fiscal year. During the third day of discussions on June 25, 2025, Justice of the Peace (JP) 1 highlighted the need for a comprehensive salary study to address disparities among clerks and other county employees.

JP 1 emphasized that while their general budget remains unchanged from the previous year, increases in the technology and courthouse security budgets are due to higher available funds from fines, not increased expenditures. This stability in the budget comes amid rising concerns about employee salaries, particularly for clerks who handle sensitive financial information and are essential to county operations.

The call for a salary study stems from ongoing issues of pay inequity, with reported differences exceeding $10,000 annually between clerks in different departments. JP 1 noted that such disparities have led to employee turnover, which ultimately affects the county's ability to serve its citizens effectively. The need for a long-term plan to retain employees was underscored, with JP 1 urging the commissioners to consider cost-of-living adjustments in the interim.

Additionally, representatives from the Texas Department of Public Safety echoed these sentiments, advocating for more troopers to manage increasing caseloads due to local construction and rising traffic incidents. They also highlighted the importance of supporting administrative staff, suggesting that pay raises could help retain key personnel.

As Cooke County prepares its budget, the discussions reflect a broader commitment to ensuring fair compensation for all employees, recognizing that their contributions are vital to the county's success. The outcome of these hearings will be crucial in shaping the county's workforce and service capabilities in the coming year.