Kankakee County Sets Salaries for Elected Officials

Some officials decline pay raises as county reviews compensation

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:35am

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A serene, cinematic painting of a county government building in warm, golden light, with deep shadows casting across the facade, conveying a sense of civic duty and responsible governance.The quiet, dignified facade of Kankakee County's government offices reflects the measured approach to setting fair salaries for elected officials.Kankakee Today

The Kankakee County Board has approved salary increases for several elected positions, including the county clerk, treasurer, and sheriff. However, the county board chairman declined raises for the next two years, stating the money will 'go back to the citizens'.

Why it matters

Setting fair and competitive salaries for elected officials is an important part of county governance, helping to attract and retain qualified leaders. The county's process of reviewing market data and negotiating increases reflects efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with the need to compensate public servants appropriately.

The details

The county clerk and treasurer will see 5.3% raises in the first year, followed by 3% increases in each of the next three years. The sheriff's salary is tied to the state's attorney's pay, which is set by the state. The county board chairman, Matt Alexander-Hildebrand, declined raises for the next two years, stating the money will 'go back to the citizens'. The board also approved per diem increases for board members.

  • The new salaries will take effect on December 1, 2026.
  • The sheriff's salary will be in effect through November 30, 2030.

The players

Anita Speckman

Kankakee County Administrator who uses data from the United Counties Council of Illinois to set salaries for the clerk and treasurer.

Matt Alexander-Hildebrand

Kankakee County Board Chairman who declined raises for the next two years, stating the money will 'go back to the citizens'.

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What they’re saying

“'[The money] will go back to the citizens.'”

— Matt Alexander-Hildebrand, Kankakee County Board Chairman

What’s next

The new salaries will take effect on December 1, 2026, when the elected officials' new terms begin.

The takeaway

Kankakee County's approach to setting salaries for elected officials reflects a balance between fiscal responsibility and the need to attract and retain qualified public servants. The county board chairman's decision to decline raises for the next two years demonstrates a commitment to directing resources back to the community.