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 County Board Approves Three-Year Contract w/Sheriff’s Employees 

Published on February 17, 2026 6:17 pm
Last Updated on February 17, 2026 6:18 pm

Effingham County Illinois
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The Effingham County Board Tuesday approved a three-year contract with Effingham County sheriff’s office employees.

The two employee groups are part of the Fraternal Order of Police.

Sheriff Paul Kuhns said the employees will receive raises of 3%, 3%, and 3.5%. Board members Norbert Soltwedel and Chris Keller were not present for the meeting and Mike Buzzard abstained from the vote.

In response to County Democrat Chairman Pat Lewis’ comment at a previous meeting regarding racism, County Board Chairman Josh Douthit said the County Board rejects any form of racism or bigotry.