Pottawatomie County agrees to increase wages for prospective jurors

Pottawatomie County residents who serve as jurors for district court trials in 2022 will receive extra compensation for their service.

Commissioners unanimously adopted a wage increase Monday. Those who get called for jury duty will receive $25, plus mileage for the first day they’re summoned to court, and $50 a day after that. According to Chief Justice Jeff Elder, Pottawatomie County averages about 10 to 15 jury trials each year.

Commissioner Dee McKee says the increase should ease some financial burden to those called to jury duty.

Pottawatomie County, like its neighbor Riley County, has long paid $10 for the first day and $20 a day thereafter. Commission Chair Greg Riat, a former Sheriff agreed with McKee, pointing to the importance of jurors to the justice system.

The new rate will take effect Jan. 1.