DEPARTMENT: Human Resources
FILE TYPE: Consent Action
TITLE
title
Adoption Of 2026 Merit Compensation Policy And Plan Provisions
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Adopt 2026 Merit Compensation Policy and Plan Provisions.
SUMMARY
Each year the County reviews policies and plans in order to ensure market competitiveness, efficiency and equity in administration, and merit compensation to support Board direction, budget constraints and related management strategies. The proposed 2026 Merit Compensation Policy and Plan (Attachment) is based on the need to provide compensation for employees to reflect market considerations within projected budget limitations and is consistent with compensation direction previously provided by Board for 2026.
The recommended 2026 non-union salary ranges reflect an increase of 4.25 percent above 2025 non-union salary ranges. The merit matrix provides for a combination of 0.0 percent to 8.25 percent base adjustments.
RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends adoption of the 2026 Merit Compensation Policy and Plan Provisions.
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EXPLANATION OF FISCAL/FTE IMPACTS
The estimated cost is included in the County Manager’s recommended 2026 budget.
☐ None ☐ Current budget ☒ Other
☐ Amendment Requested ☐ New FTE(s) requested
RESOLUTION
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WHEREAS, market competitive compensation and pay policy administration are essential to effective and efficient government; and
WHEREAS, the 2025 Merit Compensation Policy and Plan provisions should be amended for application in 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners hereby adopts the 2026 Merit Compensation Policy and Plan to include the following provisions:
• Non-union salary ranges increased 4.25 percent above 2025 non-union salary ranges.
• The merit matrix provides for a combination of 0.0 percent to 8.25 percent base adjustments.
; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That participating employees’ 2026 salaries shall be established in the context of and consistent with these provisions; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Human Resources Director is hereby authorized to update, edit and amend the 2025 Merit Compensation Policy and Plan for application in 2026.
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PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION
None.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment: 2026 Recommended Merit Compensation Plan
BOARD GOALS
☐ Thriving People ☐ A Healthy Environment with Quality Natural Resources
☐ A Successful Place for Business and Jobs ☒ Excellence in Public Service
CONTACT
Department Head: Andy Benish
Author: Andy Benish