Lander County commissioners endorse manager Ramos, direct contract update and propose $202,000 salary

The Lander County Board of Commissioners completed the annual performance evaluation for County Manager Bert Ramos on July 9, unanimously describing his leadership, grant successes and fiscal stewardship.

Commissioner 2 read a written evaluation citing more than $42 million in public investment and proposed that the county consider a revised salary: "Based on his performance ... I believe a salary of $202,000 is well deserved," the commissioner said. Commissioners asked staff to return with corrected contract language for a future vote, noting that formal pay adjustments require a separate contract action. Manager Ramos thanked the board and credited his staff for the county's results.

Why it matters: The evaluation and the proposed salary change signal the board's intent to retain experienced executive leadership as Lander County pursues ongoing infrastructure, grant and development projects. The board instructed the county manager to advertise for an open public-works position and to bring a revised contract back for formal approval.

Next steps: Staff will draft contract amendments and return them to the commission for potential approval in a future meeting.