The Wentworth Town Council voted on Jan. 6 to approve 3% merit increases for two town employees following annual performance evaluations.

The personnel committee presented Hunter Wilson’s annual evaluation for the deputy clerk/accounting clerk, noting that Wilson received ratings of "good" or "excellent" across major areas. The council voted to approve a 3% merit increase that, according to staff, is already included in the FY2025–26 budget.

The personnel committee also presented the evaluation for Yvonne Russell, town clerk and finance officer, which staff said rated her "excellent" in all major areas. The council approved a 3% merit increase for Russell by voice vote; staff confirmed the increase is included in the current fiscal-year budget.

Why it matters: Merit adjustments for key administrative staff affect the town’s personnel costs but were budgeted for the current fiscal year; the council recorded the approvals by voice vote and will implement the increases through payroll processes.

Next steps: Staff will process the approved merit increases in accordance with the budget and payroll procedures.