Forsyth County commissioners voted 3-2 at their most recent regular meeting to study commissioner pay after an earlier attempt this summer fell short.

The Mercer group will do the study for commissioners for roughly $19,600. They’ve suggested the study methodology include an analysis of similar counties based on such factors as size, growth patterns and community characteristics as well as interviewing current commissioners about their duties.

Commissioners currently make some $34,900 annually with the commission chair at around $36,700. The elected body turned down a plan to raise base pay into the low 40s this summer then later tied on whether to go forward with the pay study. Proponents of a pay hike have said it would increase the available pool of candidates. Opponents contend that the position is part-time.

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Austin Walters died from an overdose in 2021 after taking a Xanax pill laced with fentanyl, his father said. A new law named after Austin and aimed at preventing deaths from fentanyl has resulted in its first convictions in Georgia, prosecutors said. (Family photo)

Credit: Family photo