Stevens County approves unpaid leaves for two Human Services employees; introduces new child‑protection worker

Human Services requested and the board approved two unpaid leaves of absence. The director told commissioners that Nicole Frank, lead social worker in the child‑protection unit, had exhausted FMLA and donated‑leave options and faces medical recovery expected to continue through at least September; the board approved an unpaid leave through the end of 2025 (or alternating 30‑day approvals as an option).

The director also asked the board to approve unpaid leave for Jessica Krenz, a new office support specialist who is not FMLA‑eligible and not eligible for donated leave. The board approved an initial unpaid leave period of six weeks with the option to extend and revisit if further leave is needed.

Separately, the director introduced Becca, who began work in January as a child‑protection worker reporting to Mandy Lean. The director described Becca's responsibilities (intake screening, assessments, investigations and case management), educational background (degree in human services and criminal justice) and prior experience.

Why it matters: Approving extended unpaid leave preserves employment status while obliging the county to manage workload and coverage in the child‑protection unit. Introducing a new hire underscores recruiting and training needs discussed elsewhere in the meeting.