Orange County employees will all get a pay increase next year. The Commissioners Court voted unanimously Tuesday to adjust the employee matrix and include an across the board five percent pay increase. The new pay matrix goes into effect on the first pay period of Fiscal Year 2018 which starts October 1, 2017.
County Judge Brint Carlton worked with Commissioner John Gothia, County Auditor Pennee Schmitt, and Human Resources Director Lori Ardoin to determine the amount of the pay increase following the discovery of additional available funds by the County Auditor’s office. Carlton said he was happy that the Court approved the pay raise for the county employees which was possible through years of work and lean times. “I think definitely, Orange County has turned a corner, we’re in a better place,” Carlton commented.
The pay increase will have about a $734,000 impact on the county’s budget. Carlton reminded that the five percent pay increase will be included in the new collective bargaining agreement with the Sheriff’s Office Employees Association when the two parties reach a new contract. Changes made to the pay matrix included doing away with the zero years of service column and adding a column for employees with 20 plus years of service with the county.
Six weeks ago, the communication tower at the Expo Center was also struck by lightning. Guidry and the Commissioners discussed the installing of lightning rods on the grounds of the center to prevent possible future strikes.
Missy Pillsbury introduced Leon George her new deputy with the Emergency Management Department. George has been a first responder since 2012. He served most recently as a shift commander and lieutenant with Emergency Services District #1. George previously served as the assistant chief of the Little Cypress Fire Department before coming to work for Orange County.
-Dan Perrine, KOGT-
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