Oceana County approves new animal-control truck and a policy to allow advance hires for training

Oceana County’s Board of Commissioners on Feb. 13 approved buying a 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab 4WD for the Animal Control Department and changed county policy to allow advance hires so new staff can be trained before an incumbent’s departure.

The board voted to buy the truck from Meyer Chevrolet for $42,143 and authorized up to $1,000 extra to cover overhead lights, installation and decals. The measure (Motion #2025-16) passed by roll call with Commissioners Hardy, Erickson, Beggs and Walker voting yes; Commissioner McCormick was absent.

In related action, the board adopted Motion #2025-18 to amend county policy to permit department heads to hire replacement employees in advance for training purposes, subject to approval procedures involving the county administrator and personnel and finance chairs. The motion passed by roll call vote of the present commissioners. The board then approved Motion #2025-17, specifically authorizing the Animal Control Director to hire a replacement up to six weeks before the current officer’s departure and allowing the administrator to make necessary budget adjustments.

Animal Control Director Mike Garcia had requested eight weeks of overlap to ensure adequate training and to help manage a full shelter; the board approved a six-week overlap in the formal motion. The purchase and policy changes were framed as steps to maintain service continuity for animal control and public safety.

The administrator and department heads are responsible for implementing the new hiring workflow and any budget amendments required to support the overlap hiring.

The full board adjourned after completing the consent and business agenda.