The Ways & Means Committee reviewed an annual evaluation of Controller/Administrator Connie Sobey and unanimously approved forwarding a proposed contract renewal package — including a $20,000 base bonus — to the full board for consideration.

Chair read an evaluation that rated Sobey highly for communication, leadership through a difficult budget cycle and efforts to empower department heads. Ben (Deputy Administrator) summarized internal feedback emphasizing improved communication to staff across the organization and work on succession planning to transfer institutional knowledge should Sobey retire. Commissioner Mott proposed the $20,000 base bonus as recognition for sustained performance and to narrow pay gaps with comparable counties; the committee voted to forward the recommendation and proposed contract language to the full board.

Sobey thanked the commissioners and asked for any further feedback to guide priorities during the extended contract period. The committee’s action was procedural: full board review and formal contract action will follow.