Prosecutors Seek Salary Reclassification to Retain Talent and Enhance Public Safety

The Bexar County Commissioners Court held a work session on August 26, 2025, where significant discussions centered around the urgent need for salary adjustments for prosecutors in the district attorney's office. The meeting highlighted ongoing challenges related to staff retention, particularly among experienced prosecutors, who are leaving for higher-paying positions in neighboring counties.

During the session, a representative from the district attorney's office presented a budget-neutral proposal to reclassify 67 first-chair prosecutors from a salary grade of 10 to 11. The proposed change would cost approximately $688,000, which the office plans to fund by relinquishing six vacant positions within its budget. This adjustment aims to address the disparity in salaries compared to surrounding counties, where prosecutors earn significantly more—ranging from $114,000 to $149,000.

The representative emphasized that retaining experienced prosecutors is crucial for effective case management and public safety. They argued that experienced staff are essential for making informed decisions on serious cases, including violent crimes, and for training new prosecutors. The loss of institutional knowledge due to turnover could negatively impact the district attorney's office and overall law enforcement efforts.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of prosecutor retention for the county's jail population. The representative noted that having experienced prosecutors can lead to more efficient case processing, potentially reducing the number of individuals held in jail awaiting trial.

In conclusion, the proposal to reclassify the salaries of first-chair prosecutors is positioned as a vital step toward enhancing public safety and maintaining a competent legal workforce in Bexar County. The court is expected to consider this request in light of its potential impact on both the district attorney's office and the community at large.