The Stafford County Board of Supervisors convened on November 7, 2024, to discuss a proposal that would grant county employees additional paid time off around the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. The proposal aims to enhance employee morale and show appreciation for their hard work throughout the year.

The board considered adding four hours of paid leave before Thanksgiving and Christmas, effectively transforming what would have been half-day closures into full-day breaks. This change would come at an estimated cost of $100,000 to the county budget, a point that sparked considerable debate among board members.

Supervisor Young raised concerns about the financial implications of the additional time off, questioning whether it was fair to ask employees to use their own accrued leave when the county was offering more paid days. She emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility, especially in light of recent tax increases in the county.

In contrast, several supervisors, including Diggs and Gary, expressed strong support for the proposal, highlighting its importance for staff morale and recruitment. They argued that showing appreciation through additional time off is vital for retaining quality employees and fostering a positive work environment.

The discussion also touched on the tradition of granting extra time off during the holidays, with some board members noting that this practice has been in place for over a decade. They emphasized the importance of allowing employees to plan their holidays without the stress of work commitments.

However, the meeting was not without contention. Some supervisors raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, given that two board members are also deputies in the county. This led to a broader discussion about the integrity of the board's decision-making process and the need for transparency in how such benefits are allocated.

Ultimately, the board voted to approve the additional paid time off, reaffirming their commitment to supporting county employees while balancing the financial considerations that come with such decisions. The outcome reflects a recognition of the hard work of county staff and the importance of maintaining a supportive workplace culture, even amid budgetary constraints.