Aug. 13, 2025 — Norfolk County commissioners voted to implement pay increases and one‑time payments agreed in a recently ratified contract with the Registry of Deeds collective bargaining unit, authorizing $52,135.18 in FY26 increases to be paid in the current payroll cycle.

HR Director Michelle Latvini asked commissioners to approve immediate implementation so payments and retroactive increases could be issued in this week’s payroll. “The FY 26 total amount for the increases outlined above is $52,135.18,” Latvini said.

Why it matters: The changes include a 3 percent cost‑of‑living increase retroactive to July 1, 2025; a $1,100 longevity payment (appears described in transcript as $1,100 total), and a training stipend that together comprise the $52,135.18 FY26 total. County staff said the funds were appropriated earlier this spring by the advisory board into the salary reserve and that a formal transfer back to department salary lines will be requested at the advisory board meeting on Sept. 17, 2025.

The county director and HR staff told commissioners sufficient funds are available in department salary lines to cover the payments in the short term; the advisory board transfer will reconcile the reserve account later. A motion to implement the pay rates, issue the retroactive 3 percent payment and process longevity and training stipend payments was made, seconded and approved by voice vote; the record shows a unanimous voice vote in favor.

Discussion vs. decision: Commissioners were asked only to approve the financial implementation that reflects the ratified contract; the commissioners did not renegotiate terms during the meeting. The motion implemented terms already agreed by the bargaining unit and later funded through advisory‑board action.

Next steps: The county will request the advisory board transfer the appropriated funds from the salary reserve to department salary lines at its Sept. 17, 2025 meeting. Payroll staff will issue the retroactive and one‑time payments in the current payroll cycle.