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Commissioners favor COLA and merit-based performance system for county employees
Summary
Several commissioners proposed a 2.5% COLA in January 2027 and creation of a merit/performance system including an HR-led rubric to guide raises and evaluations for FY27.
Multiple commissioners told staff to prioritize employee compensation as part of FY27 planning. Commissioner Lawrence Gatewood proposed to "Plan for 2.5 COLA in January 2027 or the same level as social security," and asked for a performance‑management system so merit increases are tied to documented employee ratings. Commissioner Kyle Leary also urged forming an HR committee to develop a rubric covering department heads and supervisors, with annual or quarterly reviews to inform merit pay.
Commissioners framed the compensation proposals as a recruitment and retention tool tied to service quality: Leary said he favored “quality over quantity” to save time and money over the long term. County staff were directed to model the COLA and potential merit program in the budget scenarios.
