Pratt County employees will enjoy an extra day off this New Year’s Eve, thanks to a unanimous decision made during the Pratt County Commission meeting on December 9, 2024. The commission voted to grant county workers December 31 off, recognizing the midweek holiday's potential impact on employee morale.

The discussion began with a proposal to close county offices at noon on New Year’s Eve, but after deliberation, the commissioners opted for a full day off. “I think we should give them the whole day,” one commissioner stated, emphasizing the importance of providing benefits that employees appreciate. The motion received a swift second and was approved without opposition.

This decision reflects the commission's ongoing commitment to employee welfare, with past instances of similar gestures receiving positive feedback from staff. “They really appreciate it,” noted one commissioner, recalling previous thank-you notes from employees for time off during the holidays.

In addition to the holiday discussion, the meeting touched on other administrative matters, including insurance claims related to damages from a lightning strike, which totaled over $31,000. The commissioners discussed the necessary steps to process this claim efficiently.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the commission's focus on balancing operational needs with employee satisfaction, ensuring that county staff can enjoy the holiday season with their families.