Sheriff Hodgson increases compensation to staff amid COVID-19 pandemic

Due to the added risk and responsibility of staff due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sheriff Hodgson has added additional compensation.

“In my efforts to find an adequate compensation adjustment at a time our annual budget has been underfunded by $9.5 million, and given the teamwork and individual disciplines to meet the necessary protocols to avoid the spread of COVID-19, and after conferring with union leadership, I have decided that as of Sunday, April 12, 2020, all staff assigned to work inside the secure perimeter will be paid an additional $50 for each eight-hour shift worked. Anyone who works a double eight-hour shift will receive an additional $50. In the instance when someone is working a partial second shift on the same day, they will be paid at a rate of $6.25 per hour worked.”

Hodgson stated that staff working outside of the secure perimeter will receive $40 in additional compensation for each eight-hour shift.

Staff will not be compensated, however, for days they did not work.

The new policy will remain in place until further notice.

“The ongoing efforts of our team and attention to detail regarding the historic challenge before us have been amazing. Provided we remain mindful and vigilant with our social distancing and personal sanitation, both here and in the community, we can reach our shared goal of preventing our inmate population, us, and our families from becoming exposed to and infected by COVID-19.”

Hodgson reiterated that any staff member that does not feel well should notify their supervisor and go home and contact their doctor if necessary.