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Macon County approves detention‑officer pay bump amid staffing shortages, 4‑1
Summary
Facing four vacancies, the county board approved a pay increase for detention officers effective Feb. 23; the change is estimated to cost roughly $44,138 pro‑rated this fiscal year and about $125,000 annually when annualized. Vote passed 4‑1 amid concerns about timing and equity.
The Macon County Board of Commissioners voted 4‑1 on Feb. 10 to raise detention‑officer pay in an effort to address staffing shortages.
Finance and HR staff presented an option that would move detention officers up two pay grades; the implementation cost for the remainder of this fiscal year was estimated at about $44,138 (prorated effective Feb. 23), with an ongoing budget impact of roughly $125,000 annually when fully annualized.
Sheriff’s Office representatives and supporters described difficult working conditions, the risk of assaults, and the operational strain from current vacancies; they asked the board to approve the immediate pay bump to improve retention and recruitment.
One commissioner opposed immediate implementation, saying the county should treat pay adjustments across all departments in the context of the budget process and that singling out one group mid‑year sets a precedent. Supporters said existing budget ordinance funds and department realignments could cover the one‑time fiscal impact.
Motion to implement the increase effective Feb. 23 passed 4‑1.
Next steps: county finance staff will reflect the change in payroll and the FY27 budget planning process will include the full annualized cost.
