County economic director quits, cites wage concerns

The director of the county’s economic development and tourism effort resigned his position last Friday, just days after lodging complaints about the county’s new salary methodology.

Rob Grover, who began his tenure as economic development and tourism coordinator in 2019, said he had been thinking of leaving his job because he was considering a new business venture in addition to helping run Winghaven Pizza Farm. But it was his disappointment with the new pay structure that directly led to his resignation.

“I love Trempealeau County and expect to always be involved in public service,” Grover said. “But the writing was on the wall: I wasn’t going to be compensated for the work I was doing.” 

Grover is among perhaps five individuals who were considered at the top of their pay grade and so were deemed ineligible for a raise, according to a study completed by Carlson Dettman Consulting. Most other county employees are promised an at least two percent raise under the new pay structure.

In a letter to county employees and county officials, Grover asked the county to reconsider its decision to not give pay raises to some employees. In the letter, Grover likened the new wage scale to a “stocking full of coal.” Grover said he was also criticized for publicly discussing the new salary plan. “I don’t want to stay in a position where I can’t speak out about things I think are important.”

The personnel bargaining committee Nov. 25 decided to not act on any changes to the pay scale until an appeals process plays out.

Numerous county employees have reportedly filed an intent to appeal their new salary classification. The personnel bargaining committee is scheduled to consider the appeals at a meeting Dec. 16. The discussions are expected to be held in closed session, said county human resources director Christa Wiesenberger.