The county board planned to discuss salary increases for elected officials and county employees during a meeting today.

While the board members basically agree that the salaries should reflect a cost-of-living increase, which is about 3 percent, Commissioner Dan Belshan insisted the commissioners’ salary should be frozen at the current $19,913.71 during a workshop Monday.

Belshan emphasized the county is imposing a significant tax increase and would have to refrain from new hiring to generate funds for additional jailers at the new criminal justice center. He said the salary freeze would show the board’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.

The 3 percent guideline would also not be applied to Recorder Kelly Callahan, whose salary has been kept lower since Callahan got the position by appointment. His election victory this year would warrant a raise higher than the standard.

The board will also scrutinize the $31.5 million 2003 budget proposal.

The state’s financial woes bring a lot of uncertainty in the amount of money the county can expect next year. The county receives about $2 million in state aid, and many programs are funded by state grants.

The administration has sorted out possible areas the county can cut if it would be necessary. The watershed projects, park improvements, pool car replacements, fairgrounds water project and computer installation for the Extension Office are areas recommended for cuts if necessary.