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County reviews LEAP workforce contract and appoints business representative to Workforce Development Board
Summary
Staff reviewed the county's workforce services contract with LEAP Services (WIOA‑funded career center operations) and sought improved employer outreach; the board approved a nomination of Maurice O'Connell as a business representative on the Workforce Development Board.
Washington County staff briefed the Health & Human Services Committee on the approaching renewal of the county’s workforce service contract with LEAP Services (the county contracts with LEAP to operate career‑center services). The briefing focused on gaps in employer outreach and the need to align contracted services with county economic needs.
Why it matters: WIOA funding is constrained and under federal scrutiny; county staff and LEAP are exploring practical contract adjustments and additional, possibly non‑WIOA funding to strengthen employer outreach, on‑site workshops and business liaison capability.
Key takeaways from the briefing
- Contract model and challenge: LEAP currently provides a walk‑in career center model (basement location) and virtual workshops. Staff said the county needs more proactive employer engagement (a business liaison) and possibly in‑person workshops and satellite services across the county.
- Funding constraints: WIOA funding rules and ongoing federal review constrain the kinds of activities the contract can fund (staff said some assessment and intake activities are mandatory but funding for outreach/liaison work is limited).
- Board appointment: The committee approved a nomination for Maurice O’Connell, an HR specialist with Adirondack Studios in Argyle, to serve as Washington County’s business representative on the Workforce Development Board; his term will run from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2028 as recorded.
Next steps
Staff will return with proposed contract language and measurable metrics for the June contract renewal and will work with the Workforce Development Board and LEAP to identify funding and staffing options to strengthen employer engagement.
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