CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) – More pay is coming to some county workers in one Eastern Carolina county.

Carteret County commissioners last night unanimously approved salary increases for public safety careers.

The county says the sheriff’s office was originally one of the lowest-paying law enforcement agencies in the county, but now it will become the fifth-highest. These come after a $185,000 investment by the county.

Commissioners said they wanted to help bolster recruitment and hold retention for these positions in Carteret County. They say twenty public safety vacancies need to be filled in Carteret County.

These salary changes were approved:

• Certified deputy sheriff – $4,500 salary increase
• Entry-level deputy sheriff – minimum $49,000 salary
• Command staff, including the sheriff – $3,000 salary increase
• Detention officers and 911 dispatchers – $4,000 salary increase, and $44,000 minimum starting salary

The county says existing employees who earn less than the new minimum wage will either be adjusted to $44,000 or receive a $4,000 raise, whichever is higher.

“Carteret County is one of the safest places to live and work in North Carolina,” said Board Chairman Jimmy Farrington. “This is only possible because of the dedication of our law enforcement and 911 personnel. The Board of Commissioners recognizes the value of these public servants and is committed to providing a competitive compensation package that reflects their contributions.”