Nueces County proposes salary increases for auxiliary staff amid workforce challenges

During the recent Nueces County Budget Workshop, officials discussed critical staffing challenges and proposed salary adjustments aimed at retaining essential personnel within the county. The meeting highlighted the need for a 5% salary increase for 16 auxiliary staff and administrative assistants, a move prompted by competitive job offers from local employers, including the City of Corpus Christi and the Port Authority.

County officials noted that while state aid funds have not impacted the county's budget directly, the proposed salary adjustments are crucial for retaining talented employees who are vital to the county's operations. The last salary increase for juvenile probation officers did not extend to these auxiliary staff members, leaving a gap that the county is now seeking to address. The discussion emphasized the importance of maintaining experienced staff, especially as the county faces challenges in filling positions due to increased competition in the job market.

In addition to salary discussions, the meeting addressed the pressing need for two additional juvenile supervision officers at the county's detention center. With a significant rise in the average daily population of juveniles—up 55% from 2022 to 2024—the current staffing levels are insufficient to ensure safety and adequate supervision. The juvenile supervision ratio of one staff member for every eight juveniles is increasingly difficult to maintain, leading to staff burnout and reliance on overtime.

Officials expressed concern over the mental health needs of the juvenile population, which have also risen, complicating staffing further. The county is currently down seven staff members, highlighting the urgent need for additional hires to alleviate the burden on existing personnel.

As Nueces County navigates these staffing and budgetary challenges, the discussions from the workshop underscore the importance of investing in human resources to ensure the effective functioning of county services and the well-being of its residents. The proposed salary adjustments and staffing increases are steps towards addressing these critical needs, aiming to create a more stable and supportive environment for both employees and the community they serve.