Harris County Commissioners are set to discuss potential pay raises for sheriff’s deputies and constables during Thursday morning’s meeting in downtown Houston.
Push for Higher Salaries
Deputies with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, along with the county’s eight elected constables, are seeking significant salary increases. The discussion follows the Houston Police Department’s approved raises in May and a county decision that same month to establish pay parity with HPD.
Proposed Pay Changes
According to the Harris County Deputies’ Organization, the proposed plan would boost a deputy’s starting salary from about $57,000 to $78,000. Higher-ranking positions, such as majors and chiefs, would also see increases.
Constables Seek Equality
The county’s eight constables, who currently earn about $178,000 annually, are asking for their pay to nearly double. They argue in court documents that commissioners should “correct this inequality” between their salaries and those of other law enforcement leaders.
Funding Still in Question
While commissioners have already pledged to adjust salaries, they are expected to focus on how to fund the increases during Thursday’s meeting.
For more Harris County updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.