Board votes to exit Minnesota merit system and approves 6% raises for elected officials

Human Resources staff asked the board to approve two personnel matters: (1) a resolution authorizing Aitkin County to withdraw from the Minnesota Merit System after a Minnesota Department of Human Services review confirmed compliance with federal merit standards, and (2) a salary adjustment for county elected officials for 2026.

HR said withdrawal from the merit system would save the county about $28,440 per year and requested authorization for the county to operate under its existing personnel policies effective 12/31/2025. The board approved the withdrawal by motion.

On elected officials' pay, staff presented comparative market data for seven peer counties and internal comparisons. The county attorney, treasurer and sheriff requested 6% increases (treasurer requested 9.34% to address tenure‑related disparity). After discussion about internal equity, longevity and dollar impacts, Commissioner Westerlund moved to approve a 6% across‑the‑board increase for non‑commissioner elected officials; the motion carried on a roll call vote (3–2). The roll call was recorded in the transcript (three ayes and two nos).