Pershing County is one step closer to joining most Nevada counties in hiring a county manager, following a spirited debate at the Sept. 17 commission meeting.
Commissioners voted on three separate issues: unanimously on approving a job description, with Joe Crim the dissenting vote regarding salary range, and a recruitment plan for the new position. Pershing is currently one of only three counties in Nevada without a manager, a role often described as the chief executive officer for county operations.
“This is one of the most important positions we need,” Commissioner Connie Gottschalk said, noting that every county he contacted reported significant improvements after hiring a manager. “You can’t restructure a company without a head at the company, and that’s what this person is going to be.”
A committee of local leaders, including hospital CEO Brandon Chaddick, HR professional Frankie Graham, City Councilwoman Bonnie Skoglie, and Ted Bendure, helped draft the job description. The proposed salary range is $95,000 to $140,000, with tiered steps based on education and experience.
Commissioner Chuck Sayles voiced concerns about starting salaries, suggesting a lower entry point. Others countered that Pershing County must remain competitive with surrounding counties to attract qualified candidates willing to take on the workload.
Not all board members agreed on timing. Commission Chairman Joe Crim cast the lone “no” vote, saying the position was too costly at present. “You’re talking about an employee that is way over $200,000 in wages and benefits,” he argued. “I don’t know how Pershing County could hire a person for over $200,000 when we have employees making the bare minimum.”
Supporters emphasized that quality-of-life factors and the appeal of small-town leadership could help draw strong candidates, in addition to pay.
Under the recruitment plan, the position will be advertised this fall, with pre-screening to ensure candidates meet required qualifications. Finalists will appear before the commission for interviews and public consideration.
If filled, the new county manager would become the central point of contact for county government, overseeing departments, coordinating with state and federal agencies, and helping chart the county’s economic future.
County Manager at a Glance
- Role: Chief executive officer of the county government
- Reports to: Board of County Commissioners
- Key Duties:
• Oversees day-to-day operations
• Supervises department heads and staff
• Prepares and manages budgets
• Coordinates with state and federal agencies
• Implements policies set by commissioners - Pay Range (Pershing proposal): $95,000 – $140,000 plus benefits
- Common in Nevada: Most counties (e.g., Churchill, Lyon, Elko, Humboldt) already have a manager
- Why it matters: Streamlines government, improves accountability, and frees commissioners to focus on policy and planning
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