County Clerk discusses employee raises and the need for an Election Administrator

The Cooke County Special Commissioners Court convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on personnel needs and election management. The meeting highlighted several key requests from the county clerk's office, emphasizing the importance of adequate staffing and resources for efficient election operations.

The county clerk presented a request for four new desk chairs for employees, noting that three were acquired the previous year. Additionally, the clerk proposed reclassifying one of her clerks as a voter specialist, with a salary increase from $37,009.19 to $42,000. This request was justified by the clerk's extensive knowledge and responsibilities, particularly in managing voter-related tasks.

A significant portion of the discussion centered around the need for an Election Administrator (EA). The clerk argued that having an EA would streamline election processes, reduce confusion for voters, and improve overall efficiency. The clerk expressed frustration over the current dual-office system, which complicates voter inquiries and registration. Despite acknowledging the necessity of an EA, court members raised concerns about funding availability, reiterating that financial constraints were a primary barrier to hiring additional staff.

The clerk also advocated for a 3% raise for all county employees, citing the need for fair compensation in light of new legislative changes affecting election procedures. The discussion included the implications of a recent house bill that would alter early voting schedules, potentially complicating operations for the county's election staff.

Throughout the meeting, the clerk emphasized the challenges faced by her office, particularly regarding the management of voter registrations and the need for improved communication with voters. The court members recognized the clerk's experience and the pressing need for an EA, but reiterated that budgetary limitations would dictate their decisions.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical staffing and resource needs of the Cooke County clerk's office as it prepares for upcoming elections. The court's deliberations highlighted the ongoing challenges of balancing operational needs with financial realities, setting the stage for further discussions on budget allocations in the coming weeks.