Precinct 3 constable asks for higher pay, restored training funds and radios

The Precinct 3 constable told the court his office needs continued support for radios, training and higher pay to maintain services. "I have proposed, an increase to $50,000 for constable precinct 3," he said, adding that current base pay is $43,172 and that constables in the county are the lowest‑paid elected officials by nearly $9,000 compared with comparable positions.

He explained last year's budgeted $16,000 for radios was included because he was told no grant money was available, but that more recent information suggests grant funds may now be available; he left the $16,000 request in the budget "just in case" grants do not come through. He asked that travel funding be restored to $1,700 (it had been reduced to $600) to cover mandatory training and conferences.

The constable described added responsibilities for his office—about 300 civil papers served per year, all required reporting duties and no support staff—and argued higher pay would reduce the need for second jobs and improve retention and participation in community duties. He also described Project Lifesaver participation in the county and asked for approval to attend additional certification training if funds permit.