c080116_PersonnelClosed Session - Personnel Matter August 1, 2016
At 7:35 p.m., the Board convened closed session to consider the qualifications,
competence, performance, condition of appointment of a public officer or employee or
prospective public officer or employee, pursuant to [NCGS 143-318.11(a)(6)]. Commissioners
Frye, Kemp, Lanier, Haywood and Allen were present. Also present was Clerk to the Board
Amanda Varner and where noted were County Manager Hal Johnson and Finance Officer Will
Massie.
Chairman Frye stated that Hal Johnson had served as County Manager for two years and it
was time for his performance evaluation and salary review. He asked Mr. Johnson if he had any
comments for the Board. Mr. Johnson stated that he enjoys going to work, is less stressed, and
likes his job. He said he feels like the new challenge has recharged him. He stated that Randolph
County has a strong management team. He enjoys working with them and is very impressed
with their abilities and professionalism. He is looking forward to the Strategic Plan
implementation. Mr. Johnson was then excused.
Chairman Frye said Mr. Johnson was appointed with a starting salary of $120,000 and after
two cost of living allowance increases, he now makes $126,074. He said that Mr. Johnson gave
the Finance Officer a merit raise taking his salary to $116,000. Chairman Frye said their salaries
are really close and he feels like Mr. Johnson's salary should be comparable to other area county
managers. He presented the county manager salaries from a few surrounding counties of similar
population.
• Iredell — employed as manager for five years = $161,800
• Chatham — employed as manager for ten months = $144,200
• Davidson — employed for thirteen years = $148,166.93
• Rowan — employed for two years = $126,875
Commissioner Lanier said Mr. Johnson has worked for Randolph County for thirty-eight
years and having that kind of knowledge about the County is invaluable. Commissioner Kemp
stated that Mr. Johnson has also represented the Commissioners and the County on a multitude
of committees and boards during those years.
Chairman Frye asked Finance Officer Will Massie to join the closed session in order to
answer some questions about the pay plan. Commissioner Allen asked if the Manager position
was included in the new step grade pay plan. Mr. Massie said it was not and there is no pay
scale for the position. That decision was requested by an earlier Board because the Manager
serves at the pleasure of the Board. Mr. Massie was dismissed.
Commissioner Lanier stated that Mr. Johnson's leadership and knowledge will go a long way
in assisting future boards.
Discussion was had whether to increase by a specific dollar amount or set a new salary. The
consensus was to update Mr. Johnson's salary and set it somewhere in the $140,000-$145,000
range.
At 7:59 p.m., on motion of Kemp, seconded by Allen, the Board voted unanimously to end
closed session and to return to open session for discussion and a vote.
Darrell L. Frye, Chairman Phil Kemp
Arnold Lanier
David Allen
Stan Haywood
Amanda Varner, Clerk to the Board