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Betsy Keller forgoes pay raise to support El Paso County employees amid budget issues

El Paso Matters•Monday, December 22, 2025 at 2:00 PM•Elida S. Perez

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El Paso County Chief Administrator Betsy Keller has chosen to decline a pay raise following her successful annual performance evaluation, emphasizing her commitment to the county's employees who have not received raises due to budget constraints. The El Paso County Commissioners Court unanimously acknowledged her performance but took no further action regarding her compensation. Keller, who has served in her role since 2016, currently earns approximately $295,000, significantly less than the El Paso City Manager's salary. She aims to enhance public communication and transparency while managing a $653 million budget and overseeing around 3,100 employees. Keller's leadership is crucial as the county prepares for upcoming projects funded by voter-approved bonds totaling $155 million.

Key Details: • Betsy Keller has opted out of a pay raise to align with county employee salary freezes. • The El Paso County budget totals $653 million, overseeing 3,100 employees. • Voter-approved bonds totaling $155 million will fund various county projects. • Keller marks her 10th anniversary as chief administrator in 2026.

budget leadership county-administration public-communication employee-salaries

People & Organizations

El Paso County Commissioners CourtEl Paso CountyBetsy KellerRicardo SamaniegoSergio CoronadoEl Paso County Sportspark

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