Board approves new workforce development classifications after debate over past NACOG role

The Yavapai County Board of Supervisors voted to approve new classifications and positions to support county administration of workforce development services, a change county officials said was needed to remove a conflict that had existed when the Northern Arizona Council of Governments (NACOG) previously served as both administrator and provider.

County Manager Maury Thompson told the board the change followed a multi-year reorganization: the county took over administration of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds after concerns about NACOG’s dual role. “You can't be both the administrator determining where the money goes and then being the recipient of those same funds to provide the services,” Thompson said. He said the county has developed strong working relationships with Yavapai College and other partners since assuming fiscal-agent responsibilities.

Corey Christians, serving as interim executive director of the workforce development board, described the federal structure that governs the work. WIOA funds originate with the U.S. Department of Labor and flow to the state, which delegates administration to a local chief elected official — in this case the Board of Supervisors — that then manages oversight and fiscal responsibilities. Christians said the county role is intended to reduce conflicts by separating administration from services.

Supervisor Cook Neal raised concerns about creating new staff positions and suggested using existing college personnel or other efficiencies. Thompson and Christians responded that federal oversight, Davis-Bacon labor standards, and the need for a distinct administrator made the new county roles necessary. The board approved the recommended job specifications and positions; the vote was recorded as unanimous.

The approved package creates a senior budget analyst classification and two positions for the Director of Workforce Development and a coordinator role to support administration and compliance for WIOA-funded programs. County staff said the county will continue close coordination with Yavapai College, which remains an important service provider and training partner through eligible training-provider lists and other program functions.

The board’s action completes the personnel step needed to post the positions and fund the county’s role as WIOA fiscal agent. Staff said members will return with job postings and funding details as the positions are recruited.