Norfolk County commissioners approve 3% nonunion cost-of-living adjustment, retroactive pay awarded

The Norfolk County Commission on Sept. 24 approved a one-year cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 38 nonunion employees, awarding a 3% pay increase and a retroactive payment totaling $120,106.78.

Commissioners voted by voice after a motion to approve a 3% adjustment and position wage changes. The motion described the total retroactive payment as $120,106.78, retroactive to February 2025.

County staff clarified that the COLA covers one year only and must be reauthorized annually. The county noted the fiscal effect for later fiscal years will be incorporated into the annual budget process rather than through a multi-year commitment at this vote.

Several commissioners and staff framed the adjustment as part of regular labor and budget work: the county manager reported recent contract settlements with teachers, engineers and maintenance staff had provided a framework for broader compensation planning.

The commission recorded the action by voice vote; the meeting transcript records affirmative responses of "Aye" after the motion was seconded and called for a vote. No roll-call tally of ayes and nays was recorded in the public minutes.

Implementation and payroll timing were discussed briefly. County staff said administrative details (including when the retroactive payments would appear on payroll) would follow standard payroll processing; the meeting record indicated staff expected payroll timing to align with upcoming payroll cycles.

The commission’s action applies only to nonunion employees covered by the motion and does not alter collectively bargained contracts.

A copy of the approved motion and the payroll instructions will be reflected in the county’s personnel and fiscal records and in the FY26 supplemental budget materials where appropriate.