Board adopts FY2027 budget, approves elected-official wage changes and HR raise

The Woodbury County Board of Supervisors adopted the fiscal year 2027 budget after line-item adjustments and discussion of elected-official compensation and personnel costs.

During debate on elected-official wages, members considered recommendations from the County Compensation Board that had proposed higher increases for several offices. Tina Bertrand, Woodbury County treasurer, and Michelle Scaff, the county auditor-recorder, addressed the board and advocated for the compensation board's recommendations and for parity between management and elected officials. Public commenters also weighed in on whether elected officials should receive raises approved by the board.

After extended discussion, the board moved to receive a resolution that set the following adjustments beginning July 1, 2026: auditor 3%, county attorney 3%, sheriff 7% (statutorily constrained), supervisors 1%, chair stipend increased by $3,500 to a total $7,000, and treasurer 3%. That resolution was received on a 3' 1 vote.

Separately, the board approved a $10,000 salary increase for the human resources director, which the administrator said raises the budgeted line and associated payroll costs by about $12,060.27 when benefits are included. The board approved that increase unanimously.

The board also discussed an AFSCME MOU to adjust maintenance technician pay; the union planned a vote on the amendment and board members preferred to approve a signed MOU rather than an unsigned draft. The item received no second and was not approved tonight; staff said the board could consider it again once the union vote is complete.

After the adjustments, the board voted to adopt the FY2027 budget and accompanying resolution unanimously (4'00). Staff will update the posted backup to reflect the board's approved adjustments before filing the adopted budget with the Department of Management.