Thurston County elected leaders say ongoing budget shortfalls mean financial constraints.
THURSTON COUNTY, Wash. — Twelve elected leaders in Thurston County are calling for a wage freeze for the second year in a row, citing budget constraints due to rising service costs and reduced tax revenue.
“Fiscal leadership starts at the top, and right now our top priority is providing essential services to the people of our county,” said Commission Chairman Tye Menser. “We believe pausing salary adjustments is the responsible choice to help ensure every dollar available supports important county services and the dedicated employees who provide them.”
In 2025, Thurston County faced a $20 million deficit and had $9.8 million in cuts. The budget shortfall is expected to last for several years, according to the letter from county leaders.
Thurston County Sheriff Derek Sanders made the same request social media On May 6, he added that he believed a pay increase was “very inappropriate at this time” when his constituents are struggling with the cost of living.
If approved, the salary freeze would affect all five Thurston County commissioners, Sheriff Sanders, the county assessor, auditor, clerk, coroner, prosecutor and treasurer. Leadership salaries will remain at 2025 levels through 2027, the letter said.
Of the 12 positions, 9 terms will expire at the end of 2026 and will be up for election: all positions except District Commissioner positions 1, 2 and 4.
Salaries for all 12 officers will total about $1.7 million through 2025, with all officers except prosecutors and sheriffs earning about $145,000 annually, according to public salary data. In 2025, Sheriff Sanders earned approximately $182,000 and Prosecutor Jon Tunheim earned $217,000.
