Title
Approve and authorize advanced step placement for Steven W. Healey at Step 6 of the Undersheriff salary range effective November 28, 2026, in accordance with Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution (PPPR) No. 98-394, Section A.1.11.5.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Approve and authorize advanced step placement for Steven W. Healey at Step 6 of the Undersheriff salary range effective November 28, 2026, in accordance with Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution (PPPR) No. 98-394, Section A.1.11.5.
SUMMARY:
The Sheriff conducted a national recruitment process utilizing a firm retained through the Human Resources Department. At the conclusion of the recruitment process the Sheriff conducted a
comprehensive review of qualified law enforcement professionals in making this selection for her executive management team. At the conclusion of her review process, she extended an offer of employment to Steven Healey to become her next Undersheriff.
DISCUSSION:
Placement at an advanced step may be requested to compensate an employee, commensurate with their specialized knowledge, skill, years of relevant service, and recognition of their current compensation package. Pursuant to the provisions of Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution (PPPR) No. 98-394, Board of Supervisors’ approval is required to authorize placement above step 3 in Unit Y.
Steven W. Healey brings more than 26 years of distinguished law enforcement experience, including executive leadership positions with Kentucky’s largest police department and largest sheriff’s office. He currently serves as Chief Deputy of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and previously served as Deputy Chief of Operations for the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Since becoming Chief Deputy in October 2025, Steven W. Healey has overseen agency operations, personnel, budgeting, strategic planning, and public safety initiatives. His accomplishments include strengthening recruitment, implementing deputy wellness initiatives, expanding proactive law enforcement operations, introducing body-worn cameras, and establishing community engagement and communications units.
Previously, Steven W. Healey served as Chief of Police for Pewee Valley, Kentucky, where he successfully re-established the city’s police department, modernized policies, secured grants, and achieved compliance with state law enforcement standards.
During his 24-year career with the Louisville Metro Police Department, he rose to the rank of Colonel and served as Deputy Chief of Operations, overseeing eight patrol divisions and support bureaus. His extensive experience includes violent crime investigations, major incident management, interagency coordination, and public safety operations for nationally recognized events, including the Kentucky Derby, PGA Championship, and Ryder Cup.
A dedicated advocate for community policing, Steven W. Healey helped establish the nationally recognized Bishops Table initiative, bringing law enforcement, faith leaders, and community members together to strengthen relationships and public trust.
Steven W. Healey is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at the University of the Cumberlands. His honors include three Exceptional Merit Awards, six Meritorious Unit Citations, a Lifesaving Award, and the Dr. Charles Elliott Peace Award.
In determining the appropriate step for appointment for this at-will position, prior compensation levels and the effect of differences in compensation and benefits for these positions were considered. In addition, comparison was made to the Sheriff’s Chief Deputy salary structure as well to ensure that Steven W. Healey would be placed at a higher salary than those he will supervise. Salary recommendations have been made in accordance with the County’s Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution (PPPR) sections A.1.11.1, and A.1.11.5. These sections provide for appointment at a higher salary step for reasons including credit for experience, avoiding injustice, and employee negotiation.
In conclusion, approval is requested to appoint Steven W. Healey at Step 6 of the County’s current Salary Schedule for the classification of Undersheriff.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
N/A
FINANCING:
This position is currently budgeted within the department at step 7 and there will be no increase in salary and benefits associated with these actions and no impact on the County General Fund.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
The proposed recommended actions demonstrate the County’s commitment by increasing public safety in the County of Monterey.
X Well-Being and Quality of Life
__Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
X Safe and Resilient Communities
__Diverse and Thriving Economy
X Dynamic Organization and Employer of Choice
Prepared by: Megan Miller, Senior Secretary-Confidential, ext#3908
Approved by: Tina Nieto, Sheriff, ext#3750
Attachments: