The Uintah County Commission approved a 3 percent raise for executive officers, effective January 1st, 2026.
Human Resource Director Tonya Craven presented the agenda item during Tuesday’s Commission meeting, explaining that the original 15 percent raise requested is not beyond what inflation would have shown had they continued to receive increases throughout the years incrementally.
Commissioner Willis LeFevre took time to address questions and comments he had personally received from the public. He clarified that the Commissioners did not ask for a pay increase but that the item being considered is the result of a request from employees.
Commissioner Sonja Norton explained that when a salary survey was performed in 2023 it was agreed that elected officials were being paid appropriately at that time, though inflation is something to consider. She said that the Commissioners have done a lot of research to try and come to the best decision for the elected officials and the community.
Commissioner John Laursen emphasized that it’s not fair to penalize someone for running for office and that a pay increase is demanded by common sense. When considering people wanting to run for office, Laursen said you have to pay to have quality people that are qualified for the jobs.
Tonya Craven asked that they consider a 10% raise. Laursen made a motion for all executive officers to receive a 5% increase across the board, effective January 1, 2026. LeFevre amended the motion to say 3% which Norton agreed with.
The Commission voted and the 3% increase passed unanimously. Norton stated during discussion that she will stay with the salary she was told when she started her term, but it was clarified that her successor will receive the increase when that change occurs.
Uintah County executive officers include elected officials, department heads, and chief deputies.
