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Will County board approves multi‑year increases for countywide elected officials
Summary
After extended debate, the board approved a multi‑year pay package for countywide elected officials; members sought assurances about budget impact and timing.
The Will County Board voted April 17 to approve a multi‑year pay increase for countywide elected officials (filed as resolution 25‑107). The measure passed after extended discussion over timing, amounts and the effect on taxpayers.
Speaker Van Dyne moved the salary resolution; board members debated whether to phase increases, cap future inflation adjustments and where the county would find funding. County Board member O'Gala proposed a scaled‑back alternative during debate but that amendment failed.
Supporters argued the raises are overdue and reflected greater workload and complexity for modern county offices; opponents urged caution because the increases could increase the property tax levy unless offsets are found. Member Pretzel said an increase was appropriate after years of little change, while members on both sides said they wanted follow‑up during the budget process to identify offsets and avoid shifting costs to taxpayers.
The board approved the resolution by roll call (motion carried). The county’s legal office later noted a scrivener’s error in the resolution's fiscal‑year language and said staff will correct the text; the board voted to approve with that correction.
The resolution does not change compensation during any sitting official’s current term; the raises take effect in future fiscal years as specified in the corrected ordinance language. The county executive and finance staff said they will review the budget and report on potential offsets and timing.
