Lake County committee approves emergency extension of Salem Group temporary‑staffing contract

Yvette Oberon, purchasing manager for Lake County, told the Financial Services Committee on Jan. 8 that staff seeks an emergency extension of the county's temporary‑employee services contract with the Salem Group because the prior contract expired and had no renewal options. "The county has used the Salem Group since 2006," Oberon said, describing the firm as the employer of record for workforce development internships, apprenticeships and community worker programming.

Oberon said the contract covers temporary staffing for public works, adult probation and workforce development, with workforce development the primary user because Salem serves as employer of record for paid internship and work‑based learning programs. She told the committee an RFP has been posted, there is active interest, and staff expects to bring a contract award back in March.

Member Sherhart asked whether the $450,000 figure referenced was intended to pay the salaries of the temporary employees rather than to increase the county's own payroll. "So the $450,000, this is money to pay the salaries of those folks, right?" Sherhart asked. Oberon clarified that the amount would cover payroll paid through the vendor rather than increase county headcount.

Member Clark and other committee members asked about whether joint purchasing options were explored; Oberon said staff tried to align joint contracts but could not match expiration dates, which is why the extension is requested.

The committee approved the motion to extend the Salem Group contract by voice vote.