County council approves probation department salary ordinance amendment 6-1

The Monroe County Council voted 6–1 to approve the probation department’s request to amend the 2025 salary ordinance to add positions outlined by the department. The item came for a second reading after the July meeting lacked a unanimous vote. Chief probation staff attended to answer council questions about the request and the department’s management of part-time positions; deputy chief Linda Brady explained the department has shifted some duties previously handled by part-time probation assistant positions to full-time staff to reduce part-time expenditures while maintaining service coverage. Councilors voiced concern about future budget uncertainty and urged the probation department to hold vacancies where possible until county revenue projections are clearer. Councilor Hawke said departments should be cautious filling vacancies given new state-level tax changes affecting county revenue. Roll call: the motion passed with Councilor Bridal — yes; Councilor Wilkes — yes; Councilor Henry — yes; Councilor Hawke — no; Councilor Crossley — yes; Councilor Iverson — yes; Councilor Decker — yes. The clerk recorded the motion as approved 6 to 1. Why it matters: the action updates the county salary ordinance and affects departmental personnel budgets for 2025; the department said the amendment is needed to ensure adequate staffing and to align salaries with duties. Next steps: the ordinance amendment will be reflected in payroll and the auditor’s financial records; councilors urged continued caution around filling vacancies for 2026 until final revenue estimates are available.