Supervisors approve modest pay increases for several elected county officials

The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 24 approved resolution 2026-012 setting FY2026–27 salary recommendations for elected officials, backing a 3% increase for the county attorney, auditor, recorder, sheriff and treasurer and a smaller increase for supervisors.

Supervisors framed the vote around comparative data and county fiscal capacity. A board member noted the county’s taxable value per capita is low relative to other counties and urged caution while attempting to remain competitive in recruitment and retention. The board discussed a longstanding approach of comparing county salaries by population and taxable value before settling on the recommendation.

The motion to adopt the salary recommendations was moved and seconded and passed by roll call. The board recorded votes in favor from the supervisors present; the resolution states the increases are intended to narrow salary gaps with peer counties while maintaining the county’s ability to provide statutorily required services.

The board’s action will be incorporated into the FY2026–27 budget process. No further procedural steps were announced at the meeting.