MORGAN COUNTY, Ky. — A recent vote by the Morgan County Fiscal Court to more than double magistrate salaries continues to generate discussion across the county, with officials now publicly offering differing perspectives on the decision.
As previously reported by The Morehead Minute, magistrates approved new compensation rates during an April 30 special-called meeting, raising their annual pay from $8,400 to $18,000, an increase of more than 100 percent. The measure passed by a 3–2 vote.
Following that report, The Morehead Minute reached out to the Morgan County Fiscal Court for comment but did not receive a response prior to publication or as of this follow-up.
However, in a report by WKYT, several county officials have now addressed the issue publicly, offering insight into both support and opposition surrounding the vote.
County Attorney Raises Concerns About Process
Morgan County Attorney Myles Holbrook expressed concerns about how the raises were handled, despite also receiving a pay increase himself.
Holbrook stated that while he was transparent in requesting his own raise, he believed the magistrates’ increase lacked openness.
“When you don’t tell people what you’re doing, and you just do it and you keep it to yourselves… that’s not the way things need to be done,” Holbrook said in the report, calling the process “inappropriate.”
He also indicated that the magistrate pay increases were not discussed in prior meetings, raising questions about transparency and timing.
Split Vote Reflects Division Among Magistrates
The vote itself reflected a divided Fiscal Court.
Fifth District Magistrate Leroy Phipps, who voted against the increase, questioned whether higher pay could shift motivations for holding office.
“I think the higher the pay raise is, you’ll encourage people to run for the money, without the heart,” Phipps said.
Meanwhile, magistrates who supported the increase argued that the adjustment was long overdue.
Supporters Cite Outdated Pay and Legal Requirements
District 1 Magistrate Eric Pelfrey, who voted in favor of the increase, defended the decision, pointing to both legal obligations and comparisons with similar counties.
In a statement provided to WKYT, Pelfrey noted:
Magistrate pay had not been increased since the 1980s
The Fiscal Court is required under KRS 64.530 to set compensation during an election year
Salaries were adjusted based on comparisons with counties of similar population
Pelfrey also emphasized that the county budget has remained balanced without raising taxes or cutting services during his tenure.
Pay Changes Take Effect in 2027
Under Kentucky law, compensation for elected officials must be set before the May primary election in an election year. The newly approved salaries will take effect in January 2027.
Ongoing Public Interest
The decision continues to draw attention from residents, particularly as discussions surrounding county funding priorities — including support for emergency services — remain ongoing.
The Morehead Minute will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as additional information or official responses become available.