Macomb, IL – McDonough County's Circuit Clerk is defending her award of higher than usual pay hikes to members of her staff. Kim Wilson alloted 10% to two members of her staff, with 6% hikes to others. This was after the county board had alloted enough money from the total budget for a 3.3% increase. Wilson says the money for the larger-than-suggested increase came from money alloted for two long-term employees who left and were replaced by entry-level employees. Some positions are also supported by fee income. County board Chairman Bob Harwick says had the county board known of the additional money Wilson had available, it might have used those funds elsewhere in the county budget. The issue could be discussed at the next Law and Legal Committee meeting, where Wilson has been invited to explain her proposal for an increase in some of the fees her office charges. Harwick says there should be better communication between office-holders and the board.
Clerk, Board, Differ on Pay Hikes
