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County considers POAB, merit raises to retain deputies and firefighters
Summary
Officials discussed using a package of merit adjustments, shifting unfilled position funding and paying county contributions into POAB (peace officers benefit annuity) to strengthen recruitment and retention for deputies, jailers and firefighters.
Commissioners and staff focused on workforce retention for public safety. Staff presented a merit adjustment estimate for deputies and jailers "that could cost as much as 600,000" depending on implementation, and suggested eliminating funding for up to 8 unfilled sheriff's positions would save about $581,000 and could offset the merit program.
Agency representatives explained the POAB retirement supplement and how it works as a recruiting tool: "The POAB is a guaranteed pension... it's up to $35 a month," an agency speaker said for law enforcement, and on the fire side staff noted "$25 per month" for certified fire positions with illustrative payout figures presented in the discussion. Presenters argued the small monthly contribution can be a useful long‑term retention and recruitment benefit when combined with pay and other incentives.
Board members said they would not short‑fund active deputies and jailers; staff repeatedly said any position reductions would focus on long‑term unfilled positions and that they had discussed proposals with the sheriff and other department heads. Commissioners requested more detailed vacancy and credential data for the sheriff's office before final decisions are drafted.
