Bond issue, pay hikes on county agenda

Discussion about another bond issue to finance a new jail and pay hikes of nearly 14 percent for some elected officials are part of a lengthy agenda Tuesday for Curry County Commissioners.

The county's bond attorney and financial advisor are scheduled to make a presentation when commissioners gather at 9 a.m. in the Clovis-Carver Public Library's north annex.

Also listed on the agenda under action items is a request by Chairman Wendell Bostwick to declare a special election to finance construction of a $9.3 million jail voters rejected in April.

Bostwick has said he wants to see the bond issue placed on the November presidential election ballot, hoping more voters will participate than the less than 9 percent who cast ballots in the April special election.

Should voters reject the measure again, it can't be placed on a ballot again for another two years.

The proposed pay raises for commissioners and other elected officials are listed in the consent agenda — a listing of items such as routine bills that are voted on without discussion.

By state law, incumbent commissioners cannot award themselves pay raises. If approved the raises would only apply to newly elected officials.

Bostwick, however, would be able to pocket the raise because he is running unopposed for re-election in November.

The proposal submitted by Bostwick is to raise salaries to the maximum allowed under state law.

There is also a proposal for a 2 percent cost of living increase for all county employees.

The proposed raises for elected officials:

Commissioners — $20,073.82 to $22,832

Clerk — $50,348.74 to $57,265

Assessor — $50,348.74 to $57,265

Treasurer — $50,348.74 to $57,265

Sheriff — $52,508.56 to $56,699