Franklin County Sheriff’s Department Wins Battle For Budget

After a weeks-long battle, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department got a budget they say they can work with.

Previously, Sheriff Pat Melton said nine of his deputies were paid as much as–or less than–the county custodian.

That changed when a 4-3 vote by the Franklin County Fiscal Court approved an 8.18% increase in funds for the sheriff’s department in 2013.

The sheriff said the increase will give salary equity to the nine lowest-paid deputies, hire a new deputy, pay for another vehicle, and give a 3% pay increase to the rest of the staff.

"Our goal was to provide the best services and assistance to Franklin County we can. And as a result of the court today, we got an additional person to help us do that…and hopefully that’ll make the community safer and a better place," said Sheriff Melton.

The sheriff said the salaries will go into effect immediately, and a new deputy should be found in the next 60 days.