SMETHPORT -ðThe McKean County Salary Board agreed Thursday to
raise the salary of the first assistant district attorney, but told
DA John Pavlock they wanted more information before they would act
on two other requests

Pavlock told the board that it is customary for an assistant DA
to commit to the county for two years, and most leave as soon as
that time is up.

Pointing out that ADA Scott Klein had left, Pavlock said, “They
become more marketable – we train them and they are out the
door.”

The DA proposed giving an automatic 3 percent raise to an ADA
who stayed on after two years.

His proposal would not only help stop turnover, Pavlock argued,
it would also reward good work.

He cited First Assistant District Attorney Christa Schott as one
who has done exceptional work and has taken on many
responsibilities – “(She) is on call almost 24/7.”

Several on the board objected to creating an automatic pay raise
step, saying that any increase should come after a review of the
person’s performance.

Controller Tom Ball moved that Schott be granted a 3 percent
increase “based on merit” and the measure was approved
unanimously.

Pavlock also asked for an increase for his office manager, a
proposal with which board members seemed to concur, but did not
immediately approve.

They told Pavlock that they would like to see a formal
performance review before granting any more raises.

It was mentioned that the human resources office is putting
together a review process for all employees, and expects to
institute it before work on next year’s budget begins.

Pavlock will be given a performance review to work from and will
bring the office manager rating before the board at its next
meeting.

The DA also proposed moving the county detective position from
Grade 9 on Compensation Grid to Grade 12.

He said that the detective position in McKean County differs
from other counties in that the detective oversees and manages many
different programs and has more responsibility. He also noted that
the position requires more training and experience than other Grade
9 lobs such as sheriff’s field deputies.

“The position is much more in line with the director of security
or deputy warden position that has substantial supervision
responsibilities.” Pavlock wrote.

The board asked Pavlock to bring more information to be
discussed at the next meeting.

The Salary Board is comprised of the three commissioners, the
controller and the treasurer, and whatever department heads might
be involved in the issue to be discussed.