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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final April 8, 2025 <br />highlighting the influence of external pressures on the decision-making process. <br />Dr. Aronica presented her case for the salary increase, detailing her five years in the <br />role, during which she helped achieve accreditation with the National Association of <br />Medical Examiners. She highlighted her commitment to employee health, recent mold <br />remediation efforts, and an upcoming building project that was set to enhance safety <br />and services across the four counties. She addressed her concerns regarding a fellow <br />medical examiner in District One, who earned $417,000 despite having less <br />experience. With 18 years in the field and significant responsibilities, she believed her <br />expertise placed her among the top medical examiners nationally. She expressed her <br />willingness to negotiate her salary increase. <br />The Board discussed finding a more affordable financial solution than the proposed <br />$495,000. They acknowledged the non -confrontational handling of previous budgets, <br />citing the Medical Examiner's contributions. However, they were not prepared to vote <br />on the requested increase. A joint negotiation involving the Medical Examiner was <br />proposed to reach a mutually agreeable figure. Commissioner Adams emphasized the <br />difficulty in justifying such an increase to constituents. A proposal for a Budget <br />Committee was suggested to ensure alignment, and it was recommended that <br />representatives from each County, along with the Medical Examiner, convene to <br />discuss further. <br />Vice Chairman Loar proposed a 12% increase, which totaled approximately <br />$415,000. He believed that this adjustment could help alleviate the Board's concerns. <br />Dr. Aronica stated that she would not accept the proposed offer from Commissioner <br />Loar, explaining that the amount would not work for her. She expressed that while <br />she did not believe $495,000 was the right figure either, the proposed amount was <br />not acceptable. Dr. Aronica appreciated the consideration and discussion but <br />emphasized the importance of the issue. She expressed uncertainty about the <br />potential outcomes while affirming her own value and contributions to her team. She <br />concluded by thanking the Board for their time. <br />A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Chairman Flescher, <br />to not approve the Medical Examiners salary increase request. The motion <br />passed by the following vote: <br />Aye: 5 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner <br />Earman, and Commissioner Moss <br />13. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS <br />A. Building and Facilities Services <br />B. Community Services <br />Indian River County, Florida Page 10 <br />