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Dare County will make immediate changes in Public Works salaries and commission a salary study.

County manager Robert L. Outten told the commissioners Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022, the county’s salary structure is not competitive.

A review of starting salaries showed that the county’s starting salaries were $8,000 to $10,000 lower than the county’s incorporated municipalities, said Outten.

Outten outlined several moves to improve the employee situation, which is most critical in the Public Works Department followed by the Detention Center and Sheriff’s deputies.

Outten asked the commissioners for $285,000 annually to solve the Public Works salary issue right now, aimed at retaining existing employees. The commissioners agreed.

“We’re out of whack,” said Outten as he proposed a more formal salary study. He proposed posting a request for qualifications for a salary study to be completed by budget time. The salary study will also address a minimum salary for hourly employees. The commissioners agreed.

Outten reported that Dare employees were leaving the county for employers offering flexible schedules. “We don’t compete,” said Outten. He proposed developing a flexible schedule plan. The commissioners agreed.

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