County council to look at EMS wage matrix

Pulaski County EMS Director Nikki Lowry approached the council asking for some clarification in regards to the county wage matrix. 
Lowry said she spoke with auditor Shelia Garling to figure out how the matrix will affect the EMS wages. The result was not good. 
She said if they follow the matrix numbers, within four years there will not be a difference in pay between the paramedic wages and EMT-basic wage. 
Councilwoman Linda Powers asked for some clarification. The way she understands, the county matrix does not apply to the EMS department. A reason for not creating a matrix is because the EMS wages were changed shortly before the other wage matrix was created. 
Councilman Doug Roth said the department deserves a longevity schedule. 
Lowry said when the wage increase went into effect for the EMS department, the medics are now making more than she is, “which is fine but I’m not going to be able to survive forever with that.” 
The council had previously discussed a wage increase for Lowry but it was not finalized.
Lowry said she wants to clarify the situation so she can tell the department employees. 
Other council members agreed that they need to address a matrix for the EMS department. 
It was suggested that Lowry calculate some numbers for a matrix. Lowry gave four different options to the council to review. She said she will email the different proposals to Garling. 
The council decided to review the numbers. 
Lowry also gave the council the same report that she gave to the commissioners.