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Pitkin County approves higher salaries for some elected officials and pursues legislative change for commissioners' pay
Summary
The board approved a resolution setting increased salaries for non‑commissioner elected officials (sheriff, clerk and recorder, assessor) and voted to pursue a state legislative category change to raise county commissioners' pay; both measures passed 3–1.
Pitkin County commissioners on Feb. 11 approved a resolution setting salaries for elected officials other than county commissioners — aligning the sheriff, clerk and recorder, and assessor with state elected official pay scales — and separately voted to pursue a legislative change to increase county commissioners’ salaries.
Interim county staff explained the Home Rule Charter process for setting commissioners' pay and said a state statutory route (category change from 2b to 1a) requires legislative action; staff identified local legislators and a lobbyist who would carry the request. The board approved adding the county to a bill that CCI intends to introduce in March and agreed to pursue the change, effective for newly elected terms beginning in 2027/2029 depending on district.
One commissioner voiced fiscal concerns and opposed both actions, arguing the county should preserve funds for core services amid potential federal cuts and wildfire risk; the motions passed 3–1 in each instance.
Next steps: staff will coordinate with County Commissioner’s Association (CCI) counsel and local legislative sponsors, hold the required public hearings, and track the bill through the legislative process if it is introduced.
