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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final <br />May 6, 2025 <br />previous salary. It was said that St. Lucie claimed they would help cover the financial <br />difference, raising questions about the process and approval for these discussions. <br />Concerns about managing the medical examiner's role across four counties and <br />Funding for necessary equipment and facilities were also discussed. Additionally, a <br />discrepancy was noted in the reported number of autopsies performed, raising further <br />issues regarding the figures' transparency. Overall, there were significant worries <br />about justifying the proposed salary increase. <br />Chairman Flescher discussed the meeting with the four counties, which focused on <br />salary comparisons and the proposed salary increase for Dr. Aronica amidst <br />budgetary concerns. He noted Dr. Aronica's triple certification and salary history, <br />highlighting her current salary of $367,000, which had increased since her hiring at <br />$320,000 in 2018. He emphasized the Board's responsibility to taxpayers. He <br />mentioned the irony that the County with the smallest budget share would cover salary <br />differences, a point that no Commission had officially approved. <br />Vice Chairman Loar pointed out discrepancies in reported autopsy figures from Dr. <br />Aronica's office, noting that the actual numbers were just over 600 instead of 900. He <br />addressed Dr. Aronica's proposed salary increase of $460,000 and expressed <br />concerns about the proposal's persuasive language, significant financial commitments <br />for a new facility, and pension costs. Vice Chairman Loar remained firm against the <br />initial proposal. <br />Commissioner Earman emphasized the strong partnership between counties and <br />advocated for Dr. Aronica's continued role. While initially viewing her $495,000 <br />salary request as excessive, he acknowledged that surrounding counties agreed on <br />$460,000. He noted the medical community's support for her and stressed the <br />importance of having a qualified Medical Examiner for taxpayer savings and case <br />efficiency. Commissioner Earman reiterated his commitment to the Interlocal <br />Agreement (ILA) and the necessity of financial independence from other counties. <br />Commissioner Adams expressed concern about how this issue was handled. She <br />appreciated the four counties uniting to discuss their concerns and gain a better <br />understanding of the situation. She emphasized the importance of standing together as <br />the Treasure Coast and actively participating in an ILA regarding the medical <br />examiner's salary. Commissioner Adams believed there was no need to break this <br />matter into smaller issues, as the Board had previously agreed to a 23.8% share. She <br />stated that she was comfortable with the direction of the four counties and moved to <br />approve Option One, agreeing to fully fund the County's share of the annual salary. <br />Commissioner Moss noted it was essential to ensure staff were adequately supported. <br />Indian River County, Florida Page 12 <br />