Commissioners table inclement-weather and emergency-closing policy for further review

Summary

A draft personnel policy proposing 16 hours of annual inclement-weather leave and a formal emergency-closing process between the emergency management director and county manager was discussed. Commissioners raised cost and oversight concerns and voted to table the proposal until further research and review.

County staff presented a draft personnel policy with two related proposals: (1) a 16-hour annual leave allowance intended to cover employee absences due to inclement weather and (2) a formal emergency-closing policy empowering the emergency management director, in consultation with the county manager, to close specific county buildings when conditions pose a hazard to life or safety.

The board discussed both elements. Commissioners questioned the fiscal impact (one calculation referenced roughly 238–240 employees), the potential for employees to exploit the leave, and who would exercise authority to close buildings. Supporters said a formal decision process is needed so that responsibility is clear during floods, power outages and other hazards; critics emphasized county budget constraints and urged comparisons with peer counties.

After discussion, Commissioner 7 moved to table the item until Commissioner Lottie checks into other counties’ approaches and provides additional information. The motion to table was seconded and the board voted to table the draft for further study; no changes were adopted at the session.