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Lincoln County discusses changes to catastrophic leave policy; no vote taken
Summary
The board debated a draft catastrophic leave policy on Jan. 20, keeping a six-week eligibility threshold for now, discussing caretaker eligibility and donation limits, and directing the Auditor to review IRS guidance; the item will return to a future agenda.
Chair Janine Woodworth introduced a draft catastrophic leave policy and expressed concern that the current language limited donations to employees who themselves are completely unable to work for six weeks. She said the board should avoid restricting donations to events affecting only the employee.
Deputy District Attorney Wayne Klomp and commissioners discussed changing the eligibility period, with Klomp noting the six-week figure was a placeholder. Commissioner Mike Reese said catastrophic leave should be available when the employee is a caretaker for a spouse; Commissioner Lisa Poulsen asked for a clear definition of "family member."
The Auditor's office will determine approval criteria including eligibility requirements, operational needs, program availability and previous awards; the Auditor will have final decision authority but the policy allows consultation with department heads and commissioners in certain cases. Commissioners discussed an 80-hour cap on donated hours, IRS guidelines and confidentiality; Chair Woodworth asked that the Auditor review IRS guidance and consult with POOL/PACT before adoption.
No vote or formal adoption was taken; the board left the draft intact with the six-week placeholder and directed staff to return the item after additional review.
