Court Clerk Brings Employees’ Pay To State Level

Circuit Court Clerk Karen Harlan made small increases to five employees’ salary, bringing their pay in line with the state level.

Harlan was called in to address commissioners November 27 after they learned that morning of the raise.

She explained to commissioners that three are also employed by the state. One works 32 hours for the state, another 31 and another 20. 

Harlan said the state increased their pay in October and she wanted to match what they are making for the state. The raises are minor and she pays for them out of special assistance funds.

“I have plenty of money in the budget left,” Harlan said.

Presiding Commissioner Leo Sanders was wary of the raises and worried it could set a precedent among county officials to start doling them out to their employees.

Harlan, who said she was unsure how much money she would receive for 2019, assured commissioners she wouldn’t have to dip into other funds until the state money dries up. County Clerk John Martin said Harlan is still under the number allotted because of those state funds.

Sanders asked how it would affect her budget next year and if she planned on asking for more money.  

“Not necessarily,” said Harlan, who noted how beneficial is to have state employees pitching in those 8 to 20 hours.

Sanders asked what would happen if the state didn’t come through with the money. Harlan said she would have to let some people go.