March 25th, 2019 by WCBC Radio

In a continuing analysis of the terms of the contract of Allegany County Superintendent of Schools Dr David Cox- the current salary of $186,100 includes the monthly vehicle allowance of $1,200. A 1% COLA for ACPS employees went into effect on July 1st of 2018- the only COLA increase since Cox’s contract renewal. Cox however exercised his option not to receive a cash COLA, but rather have that 1% put into his retirement.   Much of the contract is routine with benefits including paid holidays; annual leave; illness benefits. The contract also covers 100% of health insurance for Cox and his wife. Life insurance and long term care insurance is also part of the deal- and includes the awarding of 30 annual leave days per year to accrue to a maximum of 60 over the term of the agreement. He is provided four personal days per year. In addition to his salary, the Board agreed to annually contribute 10% of his salary for his benefit to a tax sheltered annuity. Finally, the board agrees to pay for or reimburse the Superintendent’s reasonable expenses approved by the board and/or incurred by the Superintendent in performance of his duties. The contract was agreed to by a 3-1 vote in 2017 with Tammy Fraley, Laurie Marchini and Sara Beth Bittinger agreeing to the terms. Board member Wayne Foote cast a no vote while Lorelee Farrell abstained.  Cox’ salary places him 17th in the state among superintendents. Looking at a geographical comparison, Garrett County’s superintendent makes $141,000 a year- last in the state; while in Washington County, the top education spot has a salary of $247,500- good for sixth highest in Maryland. When comparing based on similar populations Cox’ salary is less than Calvert County ($205,000); but ahead of Worchester ($178,000)