Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Tax Administration topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioners adopt stipend and annual increases for tax collectors after extended debate
Summary
After extended discussion about rural equity and data gaps, Cumberland County commissioners approved a $300 annual expense stipend and 2.5% annual pay increases for tax collectors over the next four-year term and agreed to revisit a tiered compensation model in future meetings.
Cumberland County commissioners voted to authorize an ordinance to be advertised that adds a $300 annual expense stipend for tax collectors and recommends 2.5% annual pay increases over the next four-year term.
The proposal was the result of extended discussion among commissioners, staff and tax-collection stakeholders about how to help tax collectors in smaller, rural municipalities and how to obtain better data for a future tiered compensation model. One commissioner noted the county’s existing tax collector payment framework dated to 2002 and said more outreach to municipalities and school districts is needed before pursuing a tiered rate structure.
Dana (staff) outlined the board’s recommendations, saying the stipend “adds a lot to them” and reduces paperwork, and proposed the 2.5% annual increases. Commissioners discussed the mechanics: staff said the stipend is expected to be added to pay and be taxable, and collectors should continue to track expenses because if their actual expenses exceed $300 the county would reimburse the excess. The board also agreed to invite municipal and school district representatives to future meetings to gather data for a possible tiered system.
Commissioner Jean (surname not specified) moved to adopt the $300 stipend and the 2.5% annual increase; the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote. One commissioner (Gary) was not recorded as voting at the final motion. The ordinance will be advertised for public review per the county’s standard process.
