A recent study on Citrus County Sheriff’s Office pay has recommended a $5.6 million increase to help bring salaries more in line with surrounding agencies.
The study, which was presented to the Citrus County Commission on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 3:00 PM, found that the Sheriff’s Office is facing significant challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel due to below-market salaries. The study suggests that the pay increase would help the agency to better compete with other law enforcement agencies in the region.
The study examined the salaries of deputies and correctional officers in the Sheriff’s Office and compared them to those of similar agencies in Florida. It found that Citrus County deputies are paid significantly less than their counterparts in other agencies, which can make it difficult to attract and retain top talent.
The $5.6 million increase would be used to raise the salaries of deputies and correctional officers, as well as to provide additional funding for recruitment and retention efforts. The study also recommended that the Sheriff’s Office consider offering additional benefits, such as student loan forgiveness programs and tuition reimbursement, to help attract and retain qualified personnel.
The Citrus County Commission will consider the study’s recommendations in the coming weeks. If approved, the pay increase would take effect on July 1, 2024.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
