Commissioners approve $220,000 HR and compensation review with CBIZ under exception to bidding

Johnson County commissioners on Feb. 13 approved an exception to competition and authorized an agreement with CBIZ Inc. for human resources and compensation consulting services in an amount not to exceed $220,000. The board passed the motion by roll call, 7–0.

Director of Human Resources Kayla Holloway told the board the department has experienced recent departures and lacked the internal capacity to perform a comprehensive compensation and organizational review in the current budget cycle. Holloway and commissioners said the work is time-sensitive so recommendations can inform the FY2026 budget process.

Public commenters urged caution about repeatedly issuing exceptions to competition. Ben Hobert and Gene Sinasac asked why CBIZ was selected without a competitive process, whether CBIZ had prior county engagements, and how the county will measure value and timeline for the review. Holloway said the scope was carefully defined and that success metrics will include time-to-hire, retention rates, compensation competitiveness and budget sustainability.

Commissioner Hanslick moved the exception and contract authorization; Commissioner Allenbrand seconded. The clerk called the roll: seven ayes, none opposed. The motion authorized use of general fund balance reserves to cover the $220,000 and allows the county manager to execute the agreement and any non-substantive amendments.

The board also directed staff to provide measurable outcomes and to bring recommendations for any operational changes discovered by the consultant as part of the review.