Pike County fiscal court approves 3% cost-of-living raise; Judge Jones votes no

The Pike County fiscal court voted 3–1 on June 16, 2025, to approve a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for all county employees, effective June 22, 2025. Commissioners Scott, Atkins and Lewis voted in favor; Judge Beth Jones cast the lone no vote.

Judge Beth Jones said she opposed the increase on fiscal-resilience grounds and asked the court to consider long-term budget pressures. “No. I'm gonna explain my no vote,” Jones said during debate, adding later, “We've spent about $3,000,000 since February for the flood recovery because I had the county in good shape, and I'm gonna take credit for that.” She cited rising health-insurance and fuel costs and said each percentage point in payroll increases raised the county’s recurring obligations by roughly $160,000.

The court conducted a roll-call vote after a motion to adopt the 3% raise. Commissioners recorded their votes by name during the clerk’s roll call: Commissioner Scott — yes; Commissioner Atkins — yes; Commissioner Lewis — yes; Judge Beth Jones — no. The salary schedule approved by the court will take effect on June 22, 2025, and the treasurer’s packet included the updated fiscal-year 2026 schedule.

Supporters of the raise argued county employees have gone long without increases and that pay adjustments are necessary to remain competitive and retain staff. Commissioners also discussed the compounding effect of raises on future budgets.

The court paired the pay decision with routine treasurer items including acknowledgment of sheriff and clerk reports. The judge’s explanation of fiscal risks and the passage of the raise leaves the court with a near-term boost to payroll costs and a notable recorded reservation from the county’s chief executive.