Court approves out‑of‑class pay extension as Human Services staff oversee department closure

Summary

The court approved an out‑of‑class pay extension for staff overseeing the human services department closeout. Commissioners questioned why an acting director was needed versus the business manager; staff said the employee named (Rand) had been performing closeout duties and would continue. The vote was 4–1 in favor.

The Commissioner's Court on Nov. 11 approved an out‑of‑class pay extension tied to the human services department closeout.

Commissioners asked why an acting director was required to oversee closure work rather than the department business manager. County staff and the acting director (Helen) responded that Rand (a staff member already performing the duties) had been chosen by the county administrator's office and county leadership to ensure a smooth closeout, including grant closeout and payment processes, and that the role was not in the business manager's job description.

One commissioner said Michelle Heckman, the human services business manager, had supported the closeout but that Rand had been performing the role and would continue. Staff said activity at the Human Services office continued "business as usual" until closeout processes are complete and estimated the transition would be complete by the end of the calendar year.

The court approved the out‑of‑class pay extension on a 4–1 vote.