Baker County's Board of County Commissioners celebrated a significant milestone during the recent budget workshop, announcing that the department is fully staffed for the first time in years. This achievement marks a notable shift, as previous budgets often reflected vacant or interim positions.

The discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining a fully staffed department, with officials confirming that they have budgeted for this status annually. The focus then shifted to salary adjustments, particularly for permitting technicians. Currently, these positions are filled at a starting wage of $14.50 per hour. However, with the impending increase in minimum wage to $15.00 next year, officials proposed a policy adjustment to raise their pay to $15.50. This proactive measure ensures that the technicians will remain above the minimum wage threshold while also accommodating new responsibilities tied to updated permitting software.

The proposed salary increase aims to not only meet legal requirements but also to recognize the additional duties that come with the new software implementation. This strategic move reflects the county's commitment to fair compensation and effective staffing as they navigate changes in operational demands. The board's decisions during this workshop signal a forward-thinking approach to budgeting and workforce management in Baker County.