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Commissioners approve weekly stipends and higher shift differentials for assisted-living staff
Summary
The board approved a weekly $70 stipend (pro rata for part-time) and increased shift differentials for evening and night shifts for eligible assisted-living staff through June 14, 2025. Commissioners also approved using $2,500 from the HR retention line to continue employee recognition through June.
Rockingham County commissioners on Thursday approved temporary pay measures aimed at retaining assisted-living staff and reducing reliance on agency workers.
The board authorized a weekly stipend of $70 for eligible assisted-living positions (personal care partner, licensed care partner, medication care partner and wellness coordinator), prorated for part-time staff, effective Feb. 9 through June 14, 2025. Per the motion, per-diem employees are not eligible.
Separately, commissioners approved raising the shift differential to $2.75 per hour for the 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. second shift, and $3.50 per hour for the 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. third shift, effective Feb. 9, 2025.
Why it matters: County officials said the changes support recruitment and continuity of care by encouraging conversion of agency staff to permanent county employees and reducing agency spending. Presenters described continuity of staff as improving resident outcomes and relational care.
The board also debated and approved a short-term allocation of $2,500 from the HR retention budget line to fund small employee recognition items (gift cards and similar tokens) for April–June. Commissioners discussed the need to re-evaluate recognition funding during the regular budget cycle.
Votes and implementation: The motions for both pay changes passed with affirmative votes recorded. Human Resources and Long Term Care staff will implement the stipend and differential and return any required budget adjustments to the board.
Quotes: “Our goal is the continuity of care and the investment that you get from having our own employees,” one commissioner said during discussion. Long-term care staff described employee reactions to recognition programs as strongly positive.
Next steps: HR will administer the stipend and differentials for eligible employees beginning Feb. 9 and will report budgetary impacts in future budget discussions.
