County staff told Scott County Fiscal Court on May 2 that a recent compensation study shows the county has made substantial progress but still needs targeted adjustments for some jobs.

"Eighty‑five percent of our positions are at or above the median wage for the market," county staff member Jeff told the court, summarizing the Hannah Resource Group study. Staff recommended a $108,200 package to adjust the median wage in the identified positions and a 3% cost‑of‑living increase for all employees effective July 5, 2025, with the adjustment appearing on paychecks July 25.

Jeff and other staff said the targeted median adjustment affects 11 positions and that additional, narrower adjustments for four fire‑supervisory roles (affecting nine people) would cost about $15,900. The county also plans to continue longevity increases; staff estimated longevity adjustments for 31 employees in July 2025 would cost about $42,000.

Staff framed the 3% COLA as consistent with national guidance and the county’s prior 8% total adjustment last year, saying a smaller COLA this year was reasonable given the recent larger increase. The court discussed that a comprehensive compensation study might not be needed again for at least three years if the county maintains COLA adjustments in line with the market.

Court members pressed for continued monitoring of law‑enforcement pay, where market pressures remain active, and emphasized a desire to retain and recruit staff who can live in the county.