Incumbents Cosign 49% Pay Increase

Criticism and Public Outcry

The proposal faces immediate and intense criticism from various quarters:

1. Residents: Many Hennepin County residents express outrage over the size of the increase, especially given the financial challenges many are facing.

   
   

2. County Employees: Union representatives for county workers are particularly vocal, pointing out the stark contrast between the proposed 49% raise for commissioners and the much smaller increases offered to other county employees.

   
   

3. Other Elected Officials: Some former county officials and other leaders criticize the move as excessive and out of touch.
   

   Negative Implications for Hennepin County
   

   The support for such a large pay increase by some incumbents has several negative consequences for Hennepin County:
   

   1. Public Trust: The proposal damaged public trust in county leadership, with many viewing it as a "brazen grab" for more money. 2. Employee Morale: The stark difference between the proposed raise for commissioners and the offers made to other county employees (as low as 1% in some cases) could severely impact staff morale and labor relations.
   

   3. Fiscal Responsibility: At a time when many residents are struggling with rising costs and increased tax bills, the large pay increase is seen as fiscally irresponsible.
   

   4. Political Consequences: Former commissioner Randy Johnson predicts that those who vote for the increase will be "tagged as 49ers for the rest of their short political careers." Click here to find your polling location for the general election on November 5th and cast your vote for Brad Kohler for County Commissioner!