WASHINGTON CO. COMMISSIONERS APPROVE PAY INCREASE FOR DEPUTIES

  

The Washington County Commissioners approved a pay increase for six sheriff’s office deputies during their meeting today (Tuesday).

The commissioners held a closed meeting to discuss the issue.

Washington County Judge John Brieden says the idea was brought to them by Sheriff Otto Hanak:

Sheriff Otto Hanak says the raises were not out of the ordinary based on county policies.

County policy dictates that employees are evaluated after 90 days with the opportunity to increase their pay one step, which is approximately 3 percent in pay.

Sheriff Hanak says the pay step increase will go to the newly hired sheriff employees. He also mentioned the office remains short staffed due to competitive salaries in neighboring counties.

The commissioners also approved changes to the Washington County Personnel Policy Manual concerning EMS policies.

Additions to the updated manual include the change from a “24-hours on, 48 hours off” shift policy to “48 hours on, 96 hours off”. Judge Brieden says they have been utilizing the new shift formula since January and it has been successful.

Also during the meeting, the commissioners approved:

• A re-plat on Airport Road in Precinct 1
• A formal notice for utility installation on S. Berlin Road for a water line bore
• A variance request pertaining to the fronting of FM 389 in Precinct 4

The commissioners tabled a variance request concerning fronting of Christian Cemetery Road. Precinct Four Commissioner Joy Fuchs said they need more time so they can go through the proper channels to make sure the variance is environmentally sound.