Commission sets new sheriff salary at $114,702 after debate over immediate raise

Finney County commissioners set the sheriff’s annual salary at $114,702 effective Jan. 13, 2025 after discussion about compensation equity, budget timing and recruitment pressures.

Sheriff Stephen Martinez addressed the board and requested an annual salary of $120,437.10 — the amount the prior sheriff had been paid. Martinez summarized more than 30 years of county service and argued the pay level supports retention and recruitment; staff told the board the requested amount would not change the 2025 budget baseline because the prior sheriff had been paid at that level.

Commissioners debated whether an immediate increase was appropriate or whether the matter should be handled during the regular budget and salary-study process. One commissioner said a wage study and upcoming budget cycle would be the right forum for countywide salary adjustments. Another commissioner said the county was behind peers and supported the higher salary as a starting point to boost recruitment.

A motion to set the sheriff's salary at $120,437.10 failed. The commission then voted to set the salary at $114,702 effective Jan. 13, 2025. The meeting minutes record Commissioners Jones, Gherman and Schultz voting in favor and Commissioners Baskin and Yutes voting against the $114,702 figure.

What it means: The salary is effective retroactive to Jan. 13, 2025 and represents the commission’s decision balancing recruitment needs with broader county budget and compensation processes. Commissioners noted a planned countywide wage review during the budget process.

Next steps: county payroll staff will implement the salary change retroactive to Jan. 13; commissioners said they will review county compensation and may revisit pay adjustments through the budget and a salary survey.