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Board discusses elections deputy pay increase and limits of supervisory authority
Summary
Supervisors acknowledged an elections deputy pay increase to 70% of the elected officer's salary (effective 11/11/2024) and debated whether midyear deputy pay changes should be allowed, noting Iowa code gives elected officials control over their deputies' pay.
The Chickasaw County Board received notice that the elections deputy’s pay was adjusted from 65% to 70% of the elected official’s salary, raising the deputy’s hourly rate from $26.40 to $28.55 effective Nov. 11, 2024.
Board members expressed divided views over midyear pay adjustments for deputies and cautioned about setting precedents. One supervisor said he generally opposed midyear raises: "I really don't like doing pay increases in the year," while others noted that state code gives the elected official authority to set a deputy’s pay and that the board’s direct control is limited. County legal counsel and staff clarified the code is permissive on midyear adjustments but silent about timing and whether such changes must be made at a particular point in the fiscal year.
Supervisors discussed policy options, including establishing a January reauthorization or a budget-season review of deputy positions and compensation to provide clarity going forward. The board agreed to leave the item on the agenda for future consideration and to consider formal policy language during budget planning.
What happens next: The elections office will proceed with the acknowledged pay adjustment; supervisors will consider a policy and timing for future deputy authorizations and pay changes during the upcoming budget discussions.
