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Seward County approves 2% standard wage increase and 2% merit pool for 2026–27
Summary
The Seward County Board of Commissioners voted May 5 to implement a 2% across‑the‑board pay increase for all positions for fiscal year 2026–27 and establish a 2% merit award pool; the board directed staff to draft a policy formalizing the standard increase.
The Seward County Board of Commissioners voted May 5 to provide a 2% standard salary increase for all county positions for fiscal year 2026–27 and to set a 2% merit award pool.
Chairperson Misty Ahmic proposed establishing an annual standard increase to stabilize starting wages and allow merit increases to function as performance awards. Human Resources Director Roxanne Knutson and Assistant Director Tiffany Allen discussed how a predictable base increase could help departments budget. Deputy County Attorney Barbara Armstead advised that the board may create a policy to codify the 2% standard increase and bring it back for formal approval.
Commissioner Raegan Hain moved the pay proposal and Commissioner Ken Schmieding seconded the motion. The board voted unanimously to adopt the increase and merit pool.
The board and staff noted budget caps will constrain departments; commissioners were directed to account for the standardized increase during budget preparation. The county clerk and county attorney’s office will coordinate drafting the formal policy for a future meeting.
The action took place during the board’s May 5 meeting; there was no recorded dissent on the motion.
