Marshall County Commissioners recommend up to 3% wage increase for 2027 budget

As Marshall County department heads begin laying the groundwork for their 2027 budget requests, they now have a key number to work with: the County Commissioners have unanimously recommended a wage increase of up to three percent for county employees.

Commissioner President Stan Klotz brought the wage recommendation forward at the most recent commissioners' meeting, explaining the importance of establishing the figure early. Once the advertised rate is announced and department heads incorporate it into their budget requests, it cannot be raised — only reduced. Getting the number right before the process begins is essential.

Klotz suggested the three percent figure, noting that the 2026 budget included a two percent wage increase for county employees. He also pointed out that employees have not seen an increase in their health insurance contributions in several years — a benefit that, while less visible than a paycheck bump, still represents real value. "Just because it doesn't show up on your paycheck doesn't mean that's not a plus," Klotz said.

Commissioner Jesse Bohannon offered some regional context for the recommendation. While three percent may not sound dramatic on its own, he said it compares favorably to what other local governments are doing. Bohannon noted that state employees received a raise or bonus last year, while neighboring St. Joseph County gave no raises at all. "When you look at what other local units of government are doing and what the state did, it's a good increase," Bohannon said.

The three commissioners voted unanimously to send the up-to-three-percent recommendation forward as department heads continue building their 2027 budget proposals.