County Officials Propose Salary Adjustments for Elected Leaders and Budget Updates

The Dunn County Commission meeting held on July 16, 2025, focused on budget discussions for the upcoming fiscal year, with significant attention given to salary adjustments for elected officials and various departmental budgets.

One of the primary topics was the proposed change in the merit increase system for elected officials, including the auditor, sheriff, and state's attorney. Currently, these officials receive a standard increase of 2.5%, which some commissioners argued is insufficient compared to the 3% to 3.25% increases received by other department heads. A proposal was made to adjust the merit increases for elected officials to reflect the average percentage received by their peers, ensuring they do not fall behind in the pay scale.

The meeting also covered various departmental budgets, including the auditor-treasurer's office, which saw minor adjustments primarily related to salaries and professional fees. The auditor mentioned plans to replace a position with an entry-level role to save costs while providing opportunities for new employees. The budget for elections was highlighted as particularly significant due to upcoming legislative changes and the need for new election software, which will require additional training and resources.

Other budget discussions included the coroner's office, which remains largely unchanged, and the IT coordinator's budget, which is being prepared for future departmental independence. The commission plans to finalize the preliminary budgets by August 10, 2025, with adjustments to be made based on ongoing discussions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to maintaining equitable salary structures for elected officials while managing departmental budgets effectively in anticipation of upcoming changes and needs.