Updated Statement on Recent County Freeze on Vacant Positions for FY 24 in Sheriff’s Office

Sheriff Mark Pettway and the Jefferson County Commission have reached an understanding regarding the County Commission’s freeze on vacant positions for FY 24. To ensure clarity about the matter, the county manager and commission president have assured Sheriff Pettway that the funds typically allocated for the vacant positions will be redirected to benefit the Sheriff’s Office in the form of salary increases for current deputies that will improve the Sheriff’s Office’s ability to retain its workforce, reduce turnover, and the costs associated with it. While the freeze on vacant positions implies a short-term halt on expanding the workforce, the reallocated funds could be used for overtime pay. Additionally, this strategy includes a commitment to bring on more deputies in the future. “It’s essential for the Sheriff’s Office and the County Commission to maintain transparent communication with the public about these changes, ensuring that Jefferson County residents understand the rationale behind the freeze and it’s anticipated benefits” stated Sheriff Mark Pettway.