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Pine County OKs deputy sheriff trainee position after debate over guarantees and weapons restrictions
Summary
Pine County commissioners approved creating a nonunion deputy sheriff trainee position with a $26.90 starting wage, a two‑year certification limit and a restriction that trainees will not carry firearms until post‑certified; the motion passed 3–1.
The Pine County Board of Commissioners on Jan. 13 approved a new nonunion deputy sheriff trainee position and authorized recruitment, a measure proponents said will help local law enforcement recruit and evaluate candidates early.
The personnel committee recommended a grade‑8 trainee slot with a minimum starting wage of $26.90 per hour; the position would be used only if a deputy vacancy exists and there is a two‑year limit for completing required certification. County staff emphasized the trainee would not carry a firearm until they are post‑certified. "They will not be carrying a gun until they are post certified," a sheriff's department representative said during discussion. Commissioners and staff also said the arrangement is intended to be no net gain in headcount.
Opponents pressed whether the program guarantees a deputy appointment after certification. "There is no guarantee of a regular deputy position," County Administrator Dave Minkie said, adding the sheriff retains discretion to hire or not based on standards and staffing needs. After discussion the board approved the job description and recruitment authorization by roll call, with three votes in favor and one opposed (Commissioner Waldheim).
