Whitley County Council votes to advertise up to 5% cost‑of‑living increase for employees

The Whitley County Council voted 4–3 to advertise cost‑of‑living increases up to 5% as part of the county’s 2027 budget notices, a procedural cap used to set the maximum number shown in the public advertisement.

Supporters argued advertising a higher cap preserves room for negotiation once final numbers arrive; opponents warned an advertised figure could alarm the public. Ed Scott, acting in his capacity during the meeting, moved to advertise 5% and a council member seconded the motion. Chair announced after the roll call: "Motion passes 4 to 3 to advertise that 5%."

Council members disagreed about the right public message. One council member said the advertisement could create unnecessary public concern: "I don't wanna cause a panic in the public with them reading that thinking we're giving 5% raises." Others replied the advertisement is standard practice and only a maximum; the final award of raises would depend on actual budget calculations.

The council's role at this stage is limited to advertising maximums required by statute and local budgeting rules. Staff will use the advertised figure to prepare required public notices; the council may later set a lower final increase when actual revenue and cost figures are complete.