Commissioners spent substantial time reviewing a proposed updated employee handbook during the Jan. 12 meeting, raising detailed concerns about language and policy effects. Topics flagged by commissioners and department representatives included the length of the introductory/probationary period (365 days), vacation rollover limits and potential payout liabilities, insurance eligibility timing (30 vs. 60 days), anonymous incident reporting and the role of HR, and specific wording (for example, references to "owners").

Jennifer (staff) and others urged involving department heads and elected officials in a structured work session so historical practice and operational nuance could be revisited before adoption. One commissioner noted the new handbook copy had been distributed to only some elected officials earlier that day, and others said they needed time to review suggested edits emailed earlier.

Following discussion, the board approved a motion to hold a special two-hour work session at 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 15 open to elected officials and department heads to review the handbook draft and decide which suggested changes to accept.

"We're not going to get 100% consensus," one commissioner said, "but we'll decide as a group and improve the product." Staff were asked to circulate electronic copies of the current draft and compiled suggestions in advance of the special session.