VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — After a lengthy meeting centered around salary discussions and the county budget Tuesday night, the Vigo County council agreed upon a tentative budget for 2022.
Council members made a motion on the 2022 budget at Tuesday’s meeting regarding pay increases, but it was defeated in the voting process. As those conversations furthered, another motion was raised amending the previous one.
Eventually, a tentative budget of $71.2 million was passed. However, specifics on county employee pay increases were tabled for a later date.
Most of the meeting’s discussion was focused on employee raises and potential bonuses that could hit the county this year.
Council members said they believe it is important to raise wages for employees to help elevate those already working, while also attracting new employees in the process.
Instead of a five percent increase in wages, a 4.75% increase was agreed upon including other particulars that would be discussed later.
Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse spoke with the council about potentially raising the salary for the Vigo County jail staff members. The sheriff said he hopes an increase in pay can attract more people to apply and fill positions in the jail.
The meeting was adjourned with council members agreeing to reconvene at 3 p.m. on Oct. 18.
