Teton County to give employees raises instead of stipends

Teton County commissioners say they will give county employees pay raises totaling more than $1.4 million to address the rising cost of living in a community that includes Jackson Hole ski area.

The Jackson Hole News & Guide reports that commissioners opted for raises for all staffers instead of giving them housing stipends.

County Sheriff Matt Carr had sought housing assistance of almost $1,500 per month for his employees because most live outside the county, which could jeopardize emergency responses if roads into the county are closed.

But that idea did not make it into the county’s budget.

Commission Chairwoman Natalia Macker says giving employees stipends would likely mean higher property tax rates or less money to purchase housing for employees.