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York County commissioners debate $1.50 roads raise and possible ARPA use to retain workers
Summary
Commissioners discussed a proposal to give roads employees a $1.50 hourly raise amid staffing shortages, debated applying raises countywide versus targeting the roads department, and considered using ARPA funds or benefit adjustments to improve retention.
York County commissioners spent a substantial portion of the meeting discussing staffing and compensation in the roads department, with one commissioner urging the board to place a proposed $1.50 hourly raise for roads employees on the next agenda to address immediate hiring and retention shortfalls.
The board heard that the roads department was down three workers and could lose a fourth by July if vacancies are not filled. Commissioners debated whether to authorize a targeted roads-only raise or to consider a countywide approach, noting that appointed department heads and elected officials have different authorities to set pay. One commissioner warned that granting raises for one department could ‘‘open it up’’ for midyear raises in other departments and create ripple effects in the budget.
Several commissioners said benefits should be part of the retention discussion. One said health-insurance contributions and paid holidays are significant parts of the county’s compensation package and argued that promoting benefit value could help retention in addition to wage increases.
The meeting also included discussion of the county’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. A commissioner said, “that money we have 2 point some million dollars is not local taxpayer money,” and suggested using relief funds, as some other counties have, to reward essential workers. Commissioners asked department heads and stakeholders to return proposals so the board can consider ARPA allocations during the budget cycle. The board indicated staff should present budget figures and potential funding options at the next meeting so members can weigh midyear raises versus budgeting changes for fiscal year planning.
The board did not take a formal vote on raises during the meeting and directed that the item be added to a future agenda for further discussion and formal action.
