Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday approved extending the contract for the county administrator for another three years.

County Administrator Pete Melnick has managed county operations since entering the role in 2021. The contract goes through June 2027. 

Commissioners unanimously approved the contract. 

“It’s been an honor and privilege to serve Flathead County,” Melnick said after the vote. 

The contract includes a base salary of $151,000, along with annual cost of living adjustments.

The county administrator is the county’s chief executive, and under the direction of the county commissioners provides overall leadership, direction, coordination and support of the activities of the county’s workforce. The administrator ensures that “quality, effective and efficient services” are provided within the law and the policies of the county commission are carried out, according to a summary for the job. 

As part of the contract, Melnick receives a monthly transportation stipend of $400 for travel expenses for county business instead of using a county vehicle. 

Prior to joining the county, Melnick spent his career in the Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security. 

Deputy Editor Heidi Desch may be reached at 758-4421 or [email protected].