The Starke County Commissioners discussed funding payroll for 2024 using ARPA funds during their meeting Monday.
Starke County Council President Dave Pearman was acknowledged to speak on the issue and explained the disparity in pay for county employees. He added it was decided by the council instead of looking at a LIT tax to fund the raise, the use of ARPA funds would be used instead. He added this would provide a 10 percent raise across the board for all county employees.
Starke County Auditor Rachel Oesterreich stated they are estimated to use $1 million from ARPA to raise pay rates along with covering the shortfall within the 911 Fund. If approved, the raises would start January 1, 2024.
The commissioners entertained a motion to approve using ARPA funds to raise pay and cover the shortfall in the 911 Fund. Commissioner Don Binkley made the motion and Commissioner Mark Gourley seconded it. The commissioner approved the use of ARPA funds unanimously by vote.
