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Elko County fire board approves top performance rating for Chief Matt Peterson and advances him one pay step
Summary
At its Jan. 22 meeting the Elko County Board of Fire Commissioners approved a performance evaluation rating for Chief Matt Peterson and authorized moving him from step 5 to step 6; commissioners praised his leadership and training improvements.
ELKO COUNTY, Nev. — The Elko County Board of Fire Commissioners on Jan. 22 approved a performance evaluation for Chief Matt Peterson covering December 2023–December 2024 and authorized moving him from pay step 5 to pay step 6.
The action followed the board’s review of goals attached to the agenda and verbal reports on accomplishments. Commissioners repeatedly praised Peterson’s work on equipment, employee training and interagency coordination. Commissioner Delmo said the chief was “a key component to not only the district but the county as a whole.” Commissioner Gerber said Peterson had done “a fantastic job of planning and implementing” and Commissioner Steniger said he also gave Peterson “a 5.” Chief Matt Peterson thanked the board and credited staff and volunteers for the district’s performance.
Why it matters: The move advances the fire chief’s pay grade and formally records the board’s assessment of his performance for the 12‑month period. Commissioners discussed pay-step levels during the meeting; one commissioner described step 5 as “about 1 15 ballpark” and step 6 as “about 1 20,” but the record did not specify exact dollar amounts.
During discussion, commissioners noted areas they felt Peterson had improved, including wildfire preparedness, emergency response coordination and internal training. Commissioner Delmo read a written comment summarizing Peterson’s leadership, calling his performance “above target” in areas such as planning, job knowledge and customer service.
Formal action: A motion to approve the performance evaluation and move Peterson to step 6 was made, seconded and approved by voice vote. The meeting record shows no public opposition during the open comment period on the motion.
No additional conditions or follow-up assignments were recorded on the motion. The evaluation covered the 12‑month period ending December 2024; the board’s packet included the goals set at the start of the previous year and redlined targets indicating items achieved.
The board moved on to equipment purchases after completing the personnel item.
