HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024/04/22 MASON COUNTY CITIZENS' COMMISSION ON SALARIES FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS (Salary Commission)
Draft Meeting Agenda
Commission Chambers, 411 North 51h Street, Shelton and Zoom
Monday, April 22, 2024
5:30 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/i/83062381384?pwd=2hmld1AUQOOZY4lQwLhzV12YY07M2K.1
1) Call to Order—Chair Jim Morrell
2) Roll Call
3) Adoption of April 15, 2024 minutes
4) Legal Interpretation of Salary Schedule
(See 4/17/2024 a-mails sent by Diane Zoren on behalf of Chair Morrell)
5) Complete Salary Reviews and Set Salaries
a. Continue Review and Set Sherriff's Salary
b. Review 4/15/2024 Decision, Revise and Set All Other Official Salaries
c. Approve Salary Commission Resolution Salary Schedule
6) Approve "Salary Commission Talking Points"
7) Revise and Approve By-Laws, Section IV (term staggering)
8) Public Comment
3 minutes per person, 15-minute tune limit; time nnay be adjusted by consensus of the Salary Con7ntission
Public comment and testimony can be provided in person, via Zoom, e-mail dL a,masoncoun, va.gor or mail to the
Commissioners'Office at 411 N P'St, Shelton, WA 98584; or call(360)427-9670 ext. 419.
9) Good of the Order
10) Adjourn
J:\BOARDS\Salary Commission\Agendas\2024-04-22.docx
001
MASON COUNTY CITIZENS'COMMISSION ON SALARIES FORELECTED OFFICIALS
(Salary Commission)
Meeting Minutes
423 North 5ch Street,Shelton and Zoom
Monday,April 15,2024
Meeting was held hybrid—in-person and via Zoom. Members in attendance:Jim Morrell, Chair;
Leeland Wells,Vice-Chair; Mary Jo Cady—Secretary;Jann Goodpaster, Matt Mallery, Devin Ferner,
Brent Frahm, Richard Wilson, Roger Lewis, and Braden Sisk,via Zoom.
Also in attendance: Mark Neary, County Administrator, Mary Ransier, Human Resources Director
and Diane Zoren, Central Services Manager.
Chair Jim Morrell called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. and roll call was taken.
Adoption of April 8,2024 Minutes
MaryJo/Roger moved and seconded to approve the April 8,2024 Salary Commission minutes with
the correction to add Mary Ransier as attending,add that Mary Jo doesn't think there is enough
information to include Walla Walla and Kittitas Counties in comparable counties and on page 2 to
change"blowback"and"bow waves"to backlash. Motion carried.
Updates from the Chair
Salary Setting Action
Jim stated the action for this Commission is to set salaries for May 1, 2024 to Dec 31, 2026 and
have flexibility to set in two steps; next action for Salary Commission is to set salaries prior to
5/1/26 effective Jan 1,2027.
Stagger Member Terms
Jim suggested they reconvene at a later date and work on staggering the terms.
The goal for tonight is to set salaries for all elected officials.
Elected Official Responses
Jim provided a summary, using Al, of the responses from the elected officials answering the
questions posed by the Salary Commission.
The group agreed with the summary and it was noted that the Coroner may serve as the Sheriff and
that the Sheriff's comments were that he is ok with his salary.
Salary Review
Jim reviewed the Salary Considerations which is a running list of items from the Salary
Commission.
Jim then reviewed the salary comparable information, page 5,which includes the median salary
and numbers for potential step increases.Average median is$16,051 increase. There is a minimal
impact to the County to implement any increase in steps.
Matt brought up if there is a 2 step increase,the 2"d increase percentage needs to be amended.
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Mason County Salary Commission Meeting Minutes
April 15, 2024
Mary Jo voiced concern with making any increase in steps. She believes the elected officials
deserve to have the increase in one step increase.
Devin supports a one step increase.
Leeland—after talking to a variety of people,they are concerned with any increase affecting their
propertytaxes. He believes a step increase is more palatable.
Roger asked where this pay increase is coming from.
Richard—supports a one step increase and is easiest. It sounds like the County has the funding.
Braden—two steps may be more fiscally responsible.
Jann—could support a one step increase; it's a $120K increase for a year.
Matt—the elected officials are well below the median and part of the discussion is how to catch
them up to the median. It would be a large one-step increase.
Leeland brought up the impact to County employees if a large increase is approved.
MaryJo/Devin moved/seconded to move forward on a one step approach to change the salary
effective 511124. Richard—aye;Mary Jo—aye;Jann—nay, Leeland—nay-Brent—nay, Devin-aye;
Roger—nay;Matt-nay.;Braden—nay,Jim—nay. Motion failed.
Jim then went back to page 5, 6 and 7 for median salaries, not including the Sheriff. Questions to
the group were to consider all six elected officials together or not include the Commissioners; go
with median or average median salary. If including the County Commissioners it adds about$1,000
to the average median for the group.
Jann—supports keeping the five elected officials together; Commissioners do seem to have more
responsibility so she could support a higher pay for Commissioners.
There are no special license requirements for these elected officials.
Brent—favors using the average median for parity.
Devin—supportive of average median for the five elected officials.
Jann/Roger moved/seconded to adopt salaries on line 124,page 7, average median,give the
increase in two steps 50/50. Richard—aye;Mary Jo-aye;Jann-aye;Leeland—eye;Brent—aye;
Devin—aye;Roger—aye;Matt-aye;Braden—aye;Jim—aye. Motion carried unanimously.
Recess-7 minute break
Jim thanked the group for being engaged and for the conversation.
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Mason County Salary Commission Meeting Minutes
April 15, 2024
Sheriff Salary
Jim reviewed the Sheriff salary data which shows the Sheriff's salary is 8%above the median.
Mary Jo in favor of freezing the Sheriff salary at the current$160,226.
Discussion of options for setting the Sheriff salary. It is currently 5%above the Undersheriff. The
Undersheriff is at Step 9 and would also receive any across-the-board set by the Commissioners.
Matt is not in favor of the median salary.
The Sheriff salary could be set the same as it currently is—5%above the Undersheriff.Jim pointed
out that could reduce the Sheriff if the Undersheriff position changed staff.
Mary Jo—could set the Sheriff 5%above the highest step of the Undersheriff position.
Richard supports an increase for Sheriff.
Brent—freeze Sheriff salary for now until it's below the average median.
Leeland—voiced concern if the Sheriff's salary was greatly reduced.
The Commission reviewed the non-represented salary range.
Jann—suggested linking the Sheriff to the Superior Court Judge at 70.2% making the salary about
$165K. She doesn't have a problem with keeping it at the 5%above the Undersheriff.
5%above Step 10 of the non-represented salary scale puts the salary at$164,231.
Five of the nine counties linkthe Sheriff to the Superior Court Judge salary.
Jim voiced concern this changes the method that was used for the other elected officials.
Richard believes the Sheriff does a very different job than the other elected officials.
Auditor Duenkel via Zoom, stated he believes the Salary Commission is to set salaries not a
formula. He suggested asking Tim Whitehead.
Jim believes the Salary Commission has the latitude to set the salaries as they see fit,which could
include a formula.
Matt believes the group doesn't want to decrease the Sheriff salary.
Leeland—we already used a formula by using the comparable counties,which he supports.
He suggested the group submit a formula answer and a straight dollar amount and review with Tim
Whitehead so we can move ahead at next meeting.
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Mason County Salary Commission Meeting Minutes
April 15, 2024
Jim supports keep ingthe method forth Sheriff salarythe same.
Lee/Dann moved and seconded to extend the meeting 20 minutes. Motion passed.
The discussion continued on the various options for the Sheriff salary. Mary explained the
Commissioners do use the Y-rate method if a position is over market.
Leeland summarized the options are to set the Sheriff salary at 5%above Step 10 of the non-
represented salary scale; keep Sheriff salary as it is, 5%above Undersheriff; set at 70%of Superior
Court Judge.
Richard added another option to add 3%to current salary effective January 1, 2025.
Jim again brought up this is different than the other elected officials. Richard noted that they have
kept the Sheriff separate the entire process.
Jann pointed out that traditionally the Sheriff's salary has been set above the other elected officials.
Discussion of how the elected official positions are different.
Jim asked the group what they support if there is a set number-no increase 5/1/24, add 3%January
1, 2025 and discussion ensued.
Leeland/MaryJo moved and seconded to extend the meeting to 8:15 p.m. Motion carried.
Discussion of whether to give a 3%or 5% increase January 1, 2025. Group consensus is 5%
Jim asked what the formula should be for the Sheriff salary. After much discussion the following
options were provided: Option 1 -freeze salary for 5/1/24 and at 1/1/25 go to Undersheriff salary
step 10+5%; Option 2- freeze for now;July 1, 2025 and July 1, 2026 go to 70.2%of Superior Court
judge.
After more discussion and ideas floated,the group voiced their preference. Most supported Option
1.
Brent, Roger, Matt, Richard, Mary Jo,Jann,and Jim support option 1.
Devin and Leeland support option 2.
Braden -freeze and reconvene later.
Jim will put these options in a memo to Mark for review with Tim Whitehead and we'll include the
information in next week's packet.
Jim will send thank you cards to the elected officials.
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Mason County Salary Commission Meeting Minutes
April 15, 2024
Public Comment—Steve Duenkel stated the resolution establishing the Salary Commission doesn't
provide for a formula. According to Tim Whitehead,when the Commission files the salary with the
Auditor it is payable 30 days later.
Jim noted that the options will lead to a salary amount.
Jim summarized the referendum process.
Next meeting—Jim will have a draft resolution with salary schedule;talking points on method for
determining the salaries; may need to reconvene to address the member terms in the by-laws.
Adjourn—the meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
Minutes submitted by: Diane Zoren
MASON COUNTY CITIZENS'COMMISSION ON SALARIES FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS
Jim Morrell, Chair
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Jim Morrell
From: Diane Zoren <dlz@masoncountywa.gov>
Sent: Wednesday,April 17,2024 12:51 PM
To: Braden; Brent; Devin;Jann;Jim Morrell; Leland; Mary Jo; Matt; Richard; Roger
Cc: Mark Neary; Mary Ransier
Subject: Info from Jim Morrell for Salary Commission
Salary Commission Members,
As I mentioned at our meeting Monday night,last week I was beginning to draft how we file our decisions and I sought
some legal interpretation from the Deputy Prosecutor about Resolution 2024-002 that the Board of County
Commissioners passed to establish the Salary Commission.Throughout our meeting this week,I was not entirely
comfortable with the reply I had received. So,following our meeting,I wrote some questions out and Diane was able to
promptly obtain a reply from Deputy Prosecutor Tim Whitehead.In the e-mail below,the questions I asked and Mr.
Whitehead's reply(in red)are below.
Per Mr.Whitehead's interpretation,we are tasked with setting a specific salary(dollar amount)for January 1,2025 and
January 1,2026.To the extent that a salary increases January 1,2025,then that will be effective May 1,2024(going back
to May 1 onlygpplies to the initial salaries this Salary Commission sets).Further,the next opportunity we have to file
elected officials salaries is May 1,2026 which would go into effect January 1,2027.Mr.Whitehead has reviewed and
confirmed the accuracy of this summary of his replies and the steps we need to take at our April 22,2024
meeting.
Elected Official Salaries Other than the Sherriff
At our Monday,April 15,meeting,we approved unanimously the following decision:
1) Effective May 1,2024 -All six salaries to increase to$87,456+$8,523=$95,979(9.74%increase) [=current
salary+$8,523]
2) Effective January 1,2025—All six salaries to increase to$95,979+$8,522=$104,501 (8.88%increase)
This decision does not align with the legal interpretation of Resolution 2024-002.We will need to revisit this decision and
make another decision at our meeting on April 22,2024.
So at our last meeting on Monday,April 22,we need to decide how we want to handle this and put it in the following
format.For example,the decision we made would look like this:
Salary on January 1,2025* Salary January 1,2026 j
Salary for Assessor,Auditor, $104,501 $104,501
Clerk,Coroner,Treasurer,
County Commissioners
*Initial Salary Commission salary determination is an increase from current and,therefore,would be
effective May 1,2025
Note:The$104,501 is a 19.49%increase from the average median salaries for the 9 comparable counties.
If we wanted to continue with a 2-step increase,the changes could look like this:
Salary on January 1,2025* Salary January 1,2026
Salary for Assessor,Auditor, $95,979 $104,501
Clerk,Coroner,Treasurer,
County Commissioners
*Initial Salary Commission salary determination is an increase from current and,therefore,would be
effective May 1,2024
Sherriff's Salary
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Mr.Whitehead clarified multiple times in his e-mail below(see Section 3)that the intent of Resolution 2024-002 is that
we set salaries.We cannot use a method that causes the salary to automatically float up or down.Where we left our
discussion this past Monday was with two options that provide specific"set"salary amounts—one option we called the
Cost of Living Option and the other the"Pegged to `Mason County Non-Represented Salary Range with 2%ATB"'Our
discussion settled on this:
1) Cost of Living Option: j
a. May 1,2024—No change
b. January 1,2025—Current Salary+5%=$168,237
Salary on January 1,2025* Salary January 1,2026
Salary for Sherriff $168,237 $168,237
*Initial Salary Commission salary determination is an increase from current and,therefore,would be j
effective May 1,2024
2) Pegged to"Mason County Non-Represented Salary Range with 2%ATB",Range 48,Step 10=$156,411.03
a. May 1,2024—No Change
b. January 1,2025 -$156,411 +5%=$164,232
Salary on January 1,2025* Salary January 1,2026
Salary for Sherriff 1 $164,232 $164,232
*Initial Salary Commission salary determination is an increase from current and,therefore,would be j
effective May 1,2024
A couple of reminders,the current Sherriff salary was increased January 1 as it is presently tied to to+5% of the Under
Sherriff's base salary.
At our meeting on Monday,April 22,we need to decide if we use one of the above salary schedules which would put a {
new salary into effect May 1,2024(because we are setting January 1,2025 salary)or hold the increase(or a different
increase)for January 1,2026.
Mr.Whitehead has confirmed the Open Public Meetings Act that we can discuss things as long as we do not do so with a
majority(5 or more) of the Commission member present. So,if you have any questions or would like to discuss this,
please feel free to e-mail me directly(DO NOT REPLY ALL to this e-mail)at imorrell@pcfcu.org. Note from Diane—if
you email Jim directly,please cc me so a record is retained by the County. Thanks
Thank you,
Jim
Diane Zoren
Central Services Manager
Mason County
360-427-9670 ext. 747
This email may be subject to the Public Records Act
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Jim Morrell
From: Diane Zoren <dlz@masoncountywa.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, April 17, 2024 2:26 PM
To: Braden; Brent; Devin;Jann;Jim Morrell; Leland; Mary Jo; Matt; Richard; Roger
Subject: FW:Questions for Deputy Prosecutor
**WARNING:EXTERNAL EMAIL
I'm forwarding an email from Tim Whitehead that has responses to Jim's questions. Please see below. Thanks
From:Tim Whitehead<TimW@masoncountywa.gov>
Sent:Tuesday,April 16, 2024 9:45 AM
To: Diane Zoren <dlz@ mason countywa.gov>
Cc: Mark Neary<MNeary@masoncountywa.gov>; Michael Dorcy<MichaeD@masoncountywa.gov>
Subject: RE: Questions for Deputy Prosecutor
Here are my thoughts on Jim's questions(in red).
Hi Mark and Diane,
I wanted to confirm understanding of your conversations with Deputy Prosecutor Tim Whitehead and seek his legal
opinion that came up during the Salary Commission meeting this evening.
Perhaps the easiest and clearest way for all involved is for Mr.Whitehead to respond inline to each item below. Or if
separately,then to each question below(1.a.i, 1.a.ii; 1.b.i; 1.b.ii; and the QUESTION related to item 3.
1) Per my 4/11/2024 e-mail, I raised some questions related to Mason County Resolution No. 2024-002.
a. The Salary Commission prepares a schedule of salaries no later than May 1, 2024,and not later than
May 1"every two years thereafter.
i. The response you received is that 2024 is a unique year,the Salary Commission files by May 1
for changes effective May 1 and then that decision carries forward for 2025 and 2026.The next
time the Salary Commission needs to file a decision is May 1, 2026,for an effective date of
January 1, 2027. Correct?The salary commission is tasked with setting the salaries for the
succeeding two years. The years that are to be set by this commission are 2025 and 2026(the
commission should really not have any concern about 2024 simply because it is a reflection of
their decision as it would relate to an increase in 2025). The commission is not tasked with
setting a salary for 2024, however, 2024 is a unique year because the BOCC's resolution states
that an increase in salary becomes effective upon filing the salary commissions resolution with
the Auditor. So, if the 2025 salaries are increased,that then becomes the salary for May 1,
2024-Dec 31,2024 and all of 2025. There is no independent setting of 2024 salary-simply a
reflection of what the 2025 salary will be(if increased).After this initial salary settings for 2025
and 2026,the commission will need to file anther salary schedule no later than May 1, 2026 for
2027 and 2028.
ii. Mr.Whitehead suggested that a change be effective on May 1. However,there is nothing to
prevent the Salary Commission from enacting a change effective May 1, 2024, and then January
1, 2025—assuming that this is all made by one action or resolution of the Salary Commission
prior to May 1, 2024. Correct? See above-if the 2025 salary is an increase,then the 2024
mirrors that salary. There is no independent salary determination for 2024. If 2025 salaries
increase,then that is the salary for the rest of 2024.
b. Referendum petition—
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i. Any salary change would be held until 30 days following action by the Salary Commission. If no
referendum is filed,then any May 1 salary increases would go be effective dated May 1 and
back pay would be provided to those electeds' salaries where this applies. Correct? Correct
ii. If a referendum is filed,there are steps required to be taken per RCW and if enough signatures
are gathered then the referendum would be placed on the next ballot. If the voters approve the
referendum to override the Salary Commission's decision,then salaries would remain as-is. If
the Referendum is not approved, and thereby the decision of the Salary Commission is upheld,
then pay would be paid from the effective date of May 1. Correct? Correct. There is a third
scenario: a petition is filed and is later determined to be insufficient or invalid and at that point
the salary increases would also be effective May 1.
At tonight's,April 15, Salary Commission meeting, a unanimous decision was made for all elected officials salaries with
the exception of the Sherriff. We will make a decision on April 22, regarding the Sherriff's salary.
2) The decision for the elected officials salaries,with the exception of the Sheriff,was to use the average of the
median using the 9 comparable counties we have approved for all six positions (Assessor,Auditor,Clerk,
Coroner, Counter Commissioner, and Treasurer). Further,the decision was to increase these six salaries 50%
effective May 1, 2024, and the remaining 50%on January 1, 2025. Any increase that results in May 2024 is
simply a result of a 2025 increase. If there is an increase that occurs in May 2024 it is only because the 2025
salary was increased. If the idea is to raise the salaries in a two-step process that needs to happen in both 2025
and 2026 (50% in 2025 and 50%in 2026, or however they decide to split).
a. Actual result:
L Effective May 1, 2024 -All six salaries to increase to$87,456+$8,523 =$95,979 (9.74%
increase) [=current salary+$8,523] Again, if there is an increase in 2024 it only is because of the
2025 salary. 2024 reflects the 2025 salary(increase).
ii. Effective January 1, 2025—All six salaries to increase to$95,979+$8,522=$104,501 (8.88%
increase)This seems to be the remaining 50%increase that would occur in 2026.
➢ Approved unanimously on 4/15/2023
3) Sheriffs Salary—A very health conversation took place about how to approach the Sherriff's salary,either by
setting salary figures or using a formula that would float during the time period of May 1 to December 31, 2026.
The Salary Commission landed on two options from which we will select at our meeting on April 22, 2024.
Current Sherriff salary is$160,226
a. Cost of Living Option:
i. May 1, 2024—No change If there is no change in May 2024 it is only because there is not a
salary increase in 2025. In other words,the 2025 salary would be the same as it is currently.
ii. January 1, 2025—Current Salary+5%_$168,237 If you set this salary effective January 1, 2025
it would also be effective May 2024 because it is an increase and there is no salary set for 2026.
b. Pegged to "Mason County Non-Represented Salary Range with 2%ATB", Range 48,Step 10=
$15 6,411.03
i. May 1, 2024—No Change If there is no change in May 2024 it is only because there is not a
salary increase for 2025. In other words,the 2025 salary would the same as it is currently.
ii. January 1, 2025-$156,411+5%_$164,232 If you set that salary effective January 1, 2025 it
would also be effective May 2024 because it is an increase and there is no salary set for 2026.
iii.
A third option was discussed:
c. Using the Superior Court Judge Salary Schedule (current salary is 70.2%of SCJ)
i. May 1, 2024—No change [=$160, If there is no change in May 2024 it is only because there is
not salary increase for 2025.
ii. Subsequent Adjustments July 1, 2025 &July 1, 2026 - Increase Sherriff's salary to the then
"Current SCJ"X 70.2%(new SCJ salaries are effective on July 1 of each year). Again, if increased
in 2025 also increased in 2024. The resolution requires the salaries be set by May 1 and the
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Foy
State Salary Commission does not make their determinations until July and this would not line
up.
➢ QUESTION: On behalf of the Salary Commission, I would request Mr. Whitehead's opinion on options a, b, and c.
o Options 'a' and 'b'follow the same form with dates of May 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025,as we decided
for the other elected officials.The only difference is the approach is to utilize a formula to achieve the
salary figure and we would be determine what that salary figure to be now, by the
deadline of May 1, 2024
Option 'c'floats the salary during the two year period which does not seem to align with the intent of
BoCC Resoultion 2024-002. However, I am not an attorney so we want to be clear. It appears to me that
the BOCC's intent was to have a set salary (a figure)and not a formula-"The Commission shall set
salaries of the County Commissioners and other Elected Officials." Not be confused with using a formula
for calculating the specific figure/salary.
Thank you,
Jim
Jim Morrell (he/him), I-CUDE
President/CEO
Timothy W Whitehead
Mason County Prosecutor's Office
Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
P: (360)427-9670 ext.417
F: (360)427-7554
From: Diane Zoren <dlz@masoncountywa.gov>
Sent:Tuesday,April 16, 2024 8:32 AM
To:Tim Whitehead <TimW@masoncountywa.gov>
Cc: Mark Neary<MNearv@masoncountywa.gov>
Subject: FW: Questions for Deputy Prosecutor
Tim—I'm forwarding Jim's questions regarding Salary Commission. Thanks for your help. Diane
From:Jim Morrell<imorrell@pcfcu.org>
Sent: Monday,April 15, 2024 9:55 PM
To: Mark Neary<MNearv@masoncountywa.gov>; Diane Zoren<dlz@masoncountywa.gov>
Subject: Questions for Deputy Prosecutor
Caution: External Email Warning!This email has originated from outside of the Mason County Network. Do not
click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender, are expecting the email, and know the content is
safe. If a link sends you to a website where you are asked to validate using your Account and Password, DO NOT DO
SO! Instead, report the incident.
Hi Mark and Diane,
I wanted to confirm understanding of your conversations with Deputy Prosecutor Tim Whitehead and seek his legal
opinion that came up during the Salary Commission meeting this evening.
Perhaps the easiest and clearest way for all involved is for Mr.Whitehead to respond inline to each item below. Or if
separately,then to each question below(1.a.i, 1.a.ii; 1.b.i; 1.b.ii; and the QUESTION related to item 3.
3
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1) Per my 4/11/2024 e-mail, I raised some questions related to Mason County Resolution No. 2024-002.
a. The Salary Commission prepares a schedule of salaries no later than May 1, 2024, and not later than
May 1"every two years thereafter.
i. The response you received is that 2024 is a unique year,the Salary Commission files by May 1
for changes effective May 1 and then that decision carries forward for 2025 and 2026.The next
time the Salary Commission needs to file a decision is May 1,2026,for an effective date of
January 1, 2027. Correct?
ii. Mr. Whitehead suggested that a change be effective on May 1. However,there is nothing to
prevent the Salary Commission from enacting a change effective May 1, 2024, and then January
1, 2025—assuming that this is all made by one action or resolution of the Salary Commission
prior to May 1, 2024. Correct?
b. Referendum petition—
i. Any salary change would be held until 30 days following action by the Salary Commission. If no
referendum is filed,then any May 1 salary increases would go be effective dated May 1 and
back pay would be provided to those electeds'salaries where this applies. Correct?
ii. If a referendum is filed,there are steps required to be taken per RCW and if enough signatures
are gathered then the referendum would be placed on the next ballot. If the voters approve the
referendum to override the Salary Commission's decision,then salaries would remain as-is. If
the Referendum is not approved, and thereby the decision of the Salary Commission is upheld,
then pay would be paid from the effective date of May 1.Correct?
At tonight's,April 15, Salary Commission meeting, a unanimous decision was made for all elected officials salaries with
the exception of the Sherriff.We will make a decision on April 22, regarding the Sherriff's salary.
2) The decision for the elected officials salaries,with the exception of the Sheriff,was to use the average of the
median using the 9 comparable counties we have approved for all six positions(Assessor, Auditor, Clerk,
Coroner, Counter Commissioner, and Treasurer). Further,the decision was to increase these six salaries 50%
effective May 1, 2024,and the remaining 50%on January 1, 2025.
a. Actual result:
i. Effective May 1, 2024 -All six salaries to increase to$87,456+$8,523 =$95,979 (9.74%
increase) [=current salary+$8,523]
ii. Effective January 1, 2025—All six salaries to increase to$95,979+$8,522=$104,501 (8.88%
increase)
➢ Approved unanimously on 4/15/2023
3) Sheriffs Salary—A very health conversation took place about how to approach the Sherriff's salary, either by
setting salary figures or using a formula that would float during the time period of May 1 to December 31,2026.
The Salary Commission landed on two options from which we will select at our meeting on April 22, 2024.
Current Sherriff salary is$160,226
a. Cost of Living Option:
i. May 1, 2024—No change
ii. January 1, 2025—Current Salary+5%_$168,237
b. Pegged to "Mason County Non-Represented Salary Range with 2%ATB", Range 48,Step 10=
$156,411.03
i. May 1, 2024—No Change
ii. January 1, 2025-$156,411+5%_$164,232
A third option was discussed:
c. Using the Superior Court Judge Salary Schedule (current salary is 70.2%of SCJ)
i. May 1, 2024—No change [=$160,
ii. Subsequent Adjustments July 1, 2025 &July 1, 2026 - Increase Sherriff's salary to the then
"Current SCJ"X 70.2% (new SCJ salaries are effective on July 1 of each year).
➢ QUESTION: On behalf of the Salary Commission, I would request Mr.Whitehead's opinion on options a, b, and c.
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Ny' S
o Options 'a' and 'b'follow the same form with dates of May 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025, as we decided
for the other elected officials.The only difference is the approach is to utilize a formula to achieve the
salary figure and we would be determine what that salary figure to be now, by the
deadline of May 1, 2024
Option 'c'floats the salary during the two year period which does not seem to align with the intent of
BoCC Resoultion 2024-002. However, I am not an attorney so we want to be clear.
Thank you,
Jim
Jim Morrell (he/him), I-CUDE
President/CEO
Peninsula
C R 1 U 1 T V N 1 4 N
521 West Railroad Ave.
Shelton,WA 98584
360.426.1601 ext. 3088 (direct)
www.pcfcu.org
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5
013
,��i t 22-flew► �a-b
One Page Summary of Comparable Counties 4/5/2024
*=County Manager/Administrator
County
Assessor Auditor Clerk Coroner Commissioner Sheriff Treasurer
1 Mason $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 160,226 $ 87,456
2
3 Clallam* $ 108,684 $ 108,684 $ 108,684 $ 156,516 $ 108,684
4 Cowlitz $ 108,696 $ 108,696 $ 108,696 $ 108,696 $ 97,715 $ 134,542 $ 108,696
5 Kittitas $ 101,519 $ 101,519 $ 104,564 $ 104,564 $ 106,084 $ 125,535 $ 104,564
6 Grays Harbor(*) $ 90,676 $ 90,676 $ 90,676 $ 94,889 $ 90,676 $ 168,699 $ 90,676
7 Island* $ 97,189 $ 97,189 $ 97,189 $ 97,189 $ 107,985 $ 135,799 $ 97,189
8 Jefferson* $ 110,391 1 $ 110,391 1 $ 110,391 1 1 $ 106,2821 $ 142,108 1 $ 110,391
9 Lewis* $ 96,915 $ 96,915 $ 96,915 $ 96,915 $ 98,801 $ 144,839 $ 96,915
10 Skagit $ 141,304 $ 141,304 $ 141,304 $ 141,304 $ 141,304 $ 3.84,782 $ 141,304
11 Walla Walla $ 89,143 $ 89,143 $ 89,143 $ 89,143 $ 89,143 $ 118,630 $ 89,143
12 Median $ 101,519 $ 101,519 $ 100,877 $ 97,189 $ 106,084 $ 142,108 $ 104,564
13 Mason%Above/(Below)Median -13.9% -13.9% -13.3% -10.0% -17.6% 12.7% -16.4%
16
Cowltiz&Jefferson Increased Jan
Notes: Cty have a salary 1
range,used RPP high-
17 point
18
014
P�� a
INCREASED
Court Increase or 3%Statewide County
19 Elected Cost of Living Assessor Auditor Clerk Coroner Commissioner Sheriff Treasurer
20 Mason $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 160,226 $ 87,456
21 pre-7/1/2023 7/1/2023 7/1/2024
is 2024 CoL
WCCSEO-Superior Court Judges adjustment for
7/1/2024(RPP Adj) $ 203,169 $ 217,391 $ 228,261 3% statewide elected
22 officials
Clallam*,
AS-50%;AD-50%;CC-50%;S-
23 72%;T-50% $ 114,131 $ 114,131 $ 114,131 $ 164,348 $ 114,131
Cowlitz,
AS-50%;AD-50%;CL-50%;CR-
24 50%;CC=50%;5-65%;T-50% $ 114,131 $ 114,131 $ 114,131 $ 114,131 $ 114,131 $ 148,370 $ 114,131
25 Kittitas $ 104,565 $ 104,565 $ 107,701 $ 107,701 $ 109,267 $ 129,301 $ 107,701
Grays Harbor(*), (97%)
AS-43%;AD-43%;CL-43%;CR-
26 45%;CC=43%;5-80%;T-43% $ 95,208 $ 95,208 $ 95,208 $ 99,636 $ 95,208 $ 177,131 $ 95,208
Island*(97%)
AD-46%;CL-46%;CR-46%;CC-
27 51%;T-46% $ 101,850 $ 101,850 $ 101,850 $ 101,850 $ 112,921 $ 141,704 $ 93,396
28 Jefferson* $ 113,703 $ 113,703 $ 113,703 $ 109,470 $ 139,873 $ 100,105
Lewis*,(98%)
AS-46%;AD-45.5%;CL-45.5%;
29 CR-45.5%;5-68%;T-45.5% S 101,782 $ 101,782 $ 101,782 $ 101,782 $ 99,730 $ 152,113 $ 101,782
Skagit,(96%)
AS-65%;AD-65%;CL-65%;CR-
30 65%;CC-65%;5-85%;T-65% $ 142,435 $ 142,435 $ 142,435 $ 142,435 $ 142,435 $ 186,261 $ 142,435
31 Walla Walla,46%(98%) $ 89,981 $ 89,981 $ 89,981 $ 89,981 $ 89,981 $ 119,745 $ 89,981
32 Median $ 104,565 $ 104,565 $ 104,775 $ 101,850 $ 109,470 $ 148,370 $ 101,782
33 Mason%Above/(Below)Median -16.4% -16.4% -16.5% -14.1% -20.1% 8.0% -14.1%
36
37
015
38 Target Salary=Median(using 7/1/2024 Comparables)
All .O County
(except Cty.Commissioners&
39 except Sheriff) Assessor Auditor Clerk Coroner Commissioner Sheriff Treasurer
40 Current Salary $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456
41 Median $ 104,565 $ 104,565 $ 104,775 $ 101,850 $ 101,782
42 Difference $ (17,109) $ (17,109) $ (17,319) $ (14,394) $ (14,326)
43 1-Step Increase $ 17,109 $ 17,109 $ 17,319 $ 14,394 $ 14,326
44 %Increase,1-Step 19.56% 19.56% 19.80% 16.46% 16.38%
45 2-Step Increase(50/50)
46 5/1/2024 $ 8,554.29 $ 8,554.29 $ 8,659.74 $ 7,197.03 $ 7,162.79
47 9.78% 9.78% 9.90% 8.23% 8.19%
48 1/1/2024 $ 8,554.29 $ 8,554.29 $ 8,659.74 $ 7,197.03 $ 7,162.79
49 9.78% 9.78% 9.90% 8.23% 8.19%
50 2-Step Increase(75/25)
51 5/1/2024 $ 12,831 $ 12,831 $ 12,990 $ 10,796 $ 10,744
52 14.67% 14.67% 14.85% 12.34% 12.29%
53 1/1/2024 $ 4,277 $ 4,277 $ 4,330 $ 3,599 $ 3,581
54 4.89% 4.89% 4.95% 4.11% 4.10%
55
56 Average Median $ 103,507 $ 103,507 $ 103,507 $ 103,507 $ 103,507
57 Difference $ (16,051) $ (16,051) $ (16,051) $ (16,051) $ (16,051)
58 1-Step Increase $ 16,051 $ 16,051 $ 16,051 $ 16,051 $ 16,051
59 %Increase,1-Step 18.35% 18.35% 18.35% 18.35% 18.35%
60 -Step increase(50/50)
61 5/1/2024 $ 8,026 $ 8,026 $ 8,026 $ 8,026 S 8,026
62 9.18% 9.18% 9.18% 9.18% 9.184=
63 1/1/2024 $ 8,026 $ 8,026 $ 8,026 $ 8,026 $ 3,026
64 9.18% 9.18% 9.18% 9.18% 9,16%
65 2-Step Increase(75/25)
66 5/1/2024 $ 12,038 $ 12,038 $ 12,038 $ 12,038 $ 12,038
67 13.77% 13.77% 13.77% 13.77% 13.77%
68 1/1/2024 $ 4,013 $ 4,013 $ 4,013 $ 4,013 $ 4,013
69 4.59% 4.59% 4.59% 4.59% 4.59%
70
71
016
W, 0,
72 Target Salary=Median(using 7/1/2024 Comparables)
County
73 'COUNTY COMMISSIONER ONLY Assessor Auditor Clerk Coroner Commissioner Sheriff, Treasurer
74 Current Salary $ 87,456
75 Median $ 109,470
76 Difference $ (22,014)
77 1-Step Increase $ 22,014
78 %Increase,1-Step 25.17%
79 2-5tep Increase(50/50)
80 5/1/2024 $ 11,007
81 12.59%
82 1/1/2024 $ 11,007
83 12.59%
84 2-Step Increase(75/25)
85 5/1/2024 $ 16,511
86 18.88%
87 1/1/2024 $ 5,504
88 6.29%
89
90 Average Median
91 Difference
92 1-Step Increase
93 %Increase,1-Step
94 2-Step Increase(SO/SO)
95 5/1/2024
96
97 1/1/2024
98
99 2-Step Increase(75/25)
100 5/1/2024
101
102 1/1/2024
103
104
105
017
106 Tareet Salary=Median fusins 7/1/2024 Comparables)
ALL POSITIONS County
107 (except Sherriff) Assessor Auditor Clerk Coroner Commissioner Sheriff Treasurer
108 Current Salary $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456 $ 87,456
109 Median $ 104,565 $ 104,565 $ 104,775 $ 101,850 $ 109,470 $ 101,782
110 Difference $ (17,109) $ (17,109) $ (17,319) $ (14,394) $ (22,014) $ (14,326)
111 1-Step Increase $ 17,109 $ 17,109 $ 17,319 $ 14,394 $ 22,014 $ 14,326
112 %Increase,1-Step 19.56% 19.56% 19.80% 16.46% 25.17% 16.38%
113 2-Step Increase(50/50)
114 5/1/2024 $ 8,554.29 $ 8,554.29 $ 8,659.74 $ 7,197.03 $ 11,007.23 $ 7,162.79
115 9.78% 9.78% 9.90% 8.23% 12.59% 8.19%
116 1/1/2024 $ 8,554.29 $ 8,554.29 $ 8,659.74 $ 7,197.03 $ 11,007.23 $ 7,162.79
117 9.78% 9.78% 9.90% 8.23% 12.59% 8.19%
118 2-Step Increase(75/25)
119 5/1/2024 $ 12,831 $ 12,831 $ 12,990 $ 10,796 $ 16,511 $ 10,744
120 14.67% 14.67% 14.85% 12.34% 18.88% 12.29%
121 1/1/2024 $ 4,277 $ 4,277 $ 4,330 $ 3,599 $ 5,504 $ 3,581
122 4.89% 4.89% 4.95% 4.11% 6.29% 4.10%
123
124 Average Median $ 104,501 $ 104,501 $ 104,501 $ 104,501 $ 104,501 $ 104,501
125 Difference $ (17,045) $ (17,045) $ (17,045) $ (17,045) $ (17,045) $ (17,045)
126 1-Step Increase $ 17,045 $ 17,045 $ 17,045 $ 17,045 $ 17,045 $ 17,045
127 %Increase,1-Step 19.49% 19.49% 19.49% 19.49% 19.49?< 19.49io
128 2-Step Increase(SO/SO)
129 5/1/2024 $ 8,523 $ 8,523 $ 8,523 $ 8,523 $ 8,52_ j 8,523
130 9.74% 9.74% 9.74% 9.74% 9.74°'s 9.74%
New Salary $ 95,979 $ 95,979 $ 95,979 $ 95,979 $ 95,979 $ 95,979
131 1/1/2024 $ 8,523 $ 8,523 $ 8,523 $ 8,523 $ 8,523 $ 8,523
$ 104,501 $ 104,501 $ 104,501 $ 104,501 $ 104,501 $ 104,501
132 8.88% 8.88% 8.88% 8.88% 8.88% 8.88%
133 2-Step Increase(75/25)
134 5/1/2024 $ 12,784 $ 12,784 $ 12,784 $ 12,784 $ 12,784 $ 12,784
135 14.62% 14.62% 14.62% 14.62% 14.62% 14.62%
136 1/1/2024 $ 4,261 $ 4,261 $ 4,261 $ 4,261 $ 4,261 $ 4,261
137 4.87% 4.87% 4.87% 4.87% 4.87% 4.87%
018
April 22—Item 5(c)
Resolution No.
A RESOLUTION OF THE MASON COUNTY CITIZENS'COMMISSION ON SALARIES FOR ELECTED
OFFICIALS(SALARY COMMISSION)
ESTABLISHING MASON COUNTY ELECTED OFFICIALS SALARIES
WHEREAS, consistent with the provisions of Board of Commissioners of Mason County Resolution No.
2024-002,the Mason County Citizens' Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials shall prepare a
schedule of salaries for the Board of Commissioners and other elected officials, specifically the Assessor,
Auditor, Clerk, Coroner,Treasurer and Sheriff; and
WHEREAS, the Salary Commission shall set salaries of the County Commissioners and other Elected
Officials and file with the County Auditor no later than May 1, 2024, and no later than May 1st every two
years thereafter; and
WHEREAS,the Salary Commission Chair shall sign each salary schedule filed, certifying that the
schedules have been prepared and filed in accordance with this resolution, state law, and any rules, if
any, of the Commission; and
WHEREAS, the salaries filed shall become effective and incorporated into the county budget without
further action of the Board of County Commissioners or the Salary Commission and become effective
January 1st of the following calendar year; and
WHEREAS, if the initial determination of salaries, after the Commission is formed, results in an increase
in the salary to an elected official,that increase shall take effect immediately up on filing of the salary
with the County Auditor with all subsequent increases in salary shall take effect on January 1st of the
year following the filing with the County Auditor payable as follows: 30 days after filing with the County
Auditor when no referendum petition is filed; upon a determination by the County Auditor that a
referendum petition is insufficient or invalid; upon approval of a vote of the people; and
WHEREAS, salary increases established by the Commission shall be effective as to all County
Commissioners and Elected Officials regardless of their term in office; and
WHEREAS,the action of fixing the salary of the County Commissioners and Elected Officials shall
supersede any other provision of county ordinance/resolution related to budgets or fixing of salaries;
and
WHEREAS, salary decreases established by the Commission shall become effective as to incumbent
County Commissioners and Elected Officials at the commencement of their next subsequent terms in
office; and
019
April 22—Item 5(c)
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mason County Citizens' Commission on Salaries files the
following salary schedule for establishing Mason County Elected Officials:
Salary January 1, 2025* January 1, 2026
Assessor, Auditor, Clerk,
Coroner,Treasurer, County
Commissioners
Auditor
Clerk
Coroner
County Commissioners
Sherriff
Treasurer
*If the initial Salary Commission salary determination is an increase from current and, therefore,
would be effective May 1, 2024.
DATED this day of 2024
MASON COUNTY SALARY COMMISSION
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Diane Zoren, Central Services Manager James M. Morrell, Chair
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Tim Whitehead, Chief Deputy Prosecuting
Attorney
020
April 22 Item 6
Mason County Citizens' Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials(Salary Commission)
Talking Points/Summary of Initial Commissions Action
• The Salary Commission was created by the Mason County Board of Commissioners with
Resolution 2024-002 on January 16, 2024.
• Salary Commission Members:
o Four(4) of the Ten (10) Commissioners were appointed by the Board of Mason County
Commissioners.These appointments took place on March 12, 2024
o Six(6) of the Ten (10) Commissioners were selected by lot by the County Auditor from
among those registered voters with two commission members living in each County
Commissioner district.
• Purpose:
o The Commission shall prepare a schedule of salaries for the Board of Commissioners and
other elected officials for the succeeding two calendar years (i.e. 2025 and 2026).
o Any change in salary shall be filed by the Salary Commission no later than May 1, 2024.
Salary schedules filed shall become effective and incorporated into the county budget
without further action of the Board of County Commissioners or the Salary Commission
and become effective January 15t. If the initial salary determination of salaries results in
an increase in the salary to an elected official,that increase shall take effect
immediately upon filing of the salary with the County Auditor(e.g. May 1, 2024).
o Salary increases shall be effective as to all County Commissioners and Elected Officials
regardless of their term in office.
• The Salary Commission met for the first time on March 26, 2024, and held 5 weekly meetings,to
reach a decision on the Elected Officials Salary Schedule prior to the May 1, 2024 deadline. In
addition to reviewing materials between meetings, over 11 hours of meeting time and 110
hours of volunteer time as well as great appreciation for the support time provided by Mason
County human resources and administrative services.
• Considerations the Salary Commission incorporated into establishing the Salary Schedule
decisions:
o Equity between elected official positions based things such as:
■ Responsibilities
■ Salaries relative to other positions,for example:
• County Commissioners to Non-County Commissioner Elected Officials
• Percentage of Superior Court Judges
• Percentage of Under Sherriff, for Sheriffs.
o The following data sources were reviewed to inform decisions:
021
■ Comparable Counties utilized included the following nine (9) counties with the
first seven being currently utilized by Mason County or establishing County staff
salaries:
• Clallam, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Island,Jefferson, Lewis, Skagit, plus
Kittitas and Walla Walla.
■ Mason County Employee Group Wage Increases, used by Mason County Human
Resources
■ Cost of Living (COLA)for statewide elected officials
■ Washington Citizen's Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials
■ Elected Official Salary Resolution History(2013-present)
■ Inflation
o Attractability for prepared and capable people to consider running for office.
o Consideration for Mason County voters and residents.
• The attached Resolution of the Mason County Citizens' Commission on Salaried for Elected
Officials, Resolution No. 2024-01 approved on April 22, 2024, includes the new salary schedule
for Mason County Officials.
022
April 22—Item 7
Salary Commission Polc
Adopted April 8, 2024:
By-Laws—Section IV TERMS
Appointments to the Salary Commission shall be for terms of two (2)years. No person shall be
appointed for more than two (2) such terms, consecutively or not(RCW 36.17.024(4)(d)).
To ensure the entire Salary Commission does not change at the same time, as determined by the Salary
Commission, the initial term for three (3) of the six (6) Commissioners (one from each district) selected
by lot and two (2) of the four(4) appointed by the Board of County Commissioners will end December
31, 2025.The initial term of all other Commissioners will be December 31, 2026.
Upon vacancies in any position on the Commission, and within thirty(30) days, a successor shall be
selected to and appointee to fill the unexpired term in the same manner as the initial appointment.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By-Laws—Section IV TERMS
Revision to stagger terms—Following the Salary Commission Meetings in March—April 2024,the next
requirement of the Salary Commission will be to file new salary schedules by May 1, 2026 for salaries
that will start January 1, 2027 and January 1, 2028.
Current Salary Commissioner Terms, as we are the initial Commission, run from March 2024 through
December 2026.All current commissioners are eligible to continue for a second consecutive term which
would be through December 2028. No Salary Commissioner may serve more than 2 terms, either
consecutively or terms that are separated.
Now understanding this frequency of the Salary Commission meetings and responsibilities, Section IV of
the Salary Commission by-laws needs to be revised if the intent still is to (a) stagger terms, and (b)
ensure there is some continuity for knowledge and historical purposes that remains on the commission
for the third round of Salary Commission decisions that will require a decision to file salaries by May 1,
2028.
The intent to stagger terms, can still be accomplished by the current resolution language. However,
some of today's Salary Commissioners will have just made their first and last salary decisions.
Options are:
a) Keep the By-Law section as was approved on April 8, 2024 (see Article IV text above)
b) Review the by-laws to give today's Salary Commissioners a second opportunity to set salaries
(early 2026), and then select half(at random)with 50%of those drawn by lot and 50%of those
appointed by the BoCC,to serve only one term.
Appointments to the Salary Commission shall be for terms of two (2)years. No person shall be
appointed for more than two (2) such terms, consecutively or not (RCW 36.17.024(4)(d)).
023
14.eVV\-7 —Pajt Z
TA- P—n-y-lre the entire Salary COMMiSSiGR does not change at the same tome, as determined by the Salary
COMMOSSOOR, the iRitial term f9F three (3) ef the six (6) Gammissieners (ene fFem each distr.Gt) selected
31, 2025.The initial term of all other Commissioners will be December 31, 2026. During its meetings in
early 2026 (prior to May 1, 2026), the Salary Commission will selected three (3) of the six (6)
Commissioners (one from each district) selected by lot and two (2) of the four(4) appointed by the
Board of County Commissioners to serve only one term.
Upon vacancies in any position on the Commission, and within thirty (30) days,a-successors shall be
selected to and appointee to fill the unexpired term in the same manner as the initial appointment.
024