Antelope County Commissioners approved a 20% pay increase for the county’s public defender during the board’s Jan. 10 meeting in Neligh.

According to deputy county attorney, Joe Smith, the last approved contract expired in 2015.

Currently, Patrick Carney, of Norfolk, fills the role for the county and receives $38,000 annually.

He reported to commissioners he would like to continue in the position, which is an appointed office.

After an analysis, Smith recommended an increase of 20%, or $7,600. Additionally, Smith advocated for a two-year contract, from January 2023 in effect through Dec. 31, 2024.

“So that’s a straight salary?” Commissioner Keith Heithoff asked.

Smith outlined parameters of what is expected from the public defender.

Carney said he “appreciated” commissioners considering an update to the contract.

Commissioner Regina Krebs asked if the board should review the contract.

Smith said he and Carney will work together on the “fine points” of the contract, which will be presented to commissioners, for signature, in February.