In 3 years he has reached the top of the nine step pay scale provided for in his contract.  Not quite sure how these high roller contracts and the steps are supposed to work, but for most of the working stiffs a "step" generally requires at least one year of additional experience and acceptable performance.  Perhaps he is that good, but makes you wonder about what the initial hiring contract really meant and what the commissioners promised.  The effect of this raise will undoubtedly mean pressure to increase the wages of the the middle managers in the county government. That is where the ongoing budget issues lie, not just a few thousand more for the top administrator.