Curry County commissioners unanimously approve rehiring of deputy roadmaster amid review of vacation-payout policy

The Curry County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a year-to-year employment contract to rehire Gary (listed as "Wolfert" in an earlier agenda line and later as "Wolford" in the motion) for the deputy roadmaster position.

Commissioners said the rehiring was driven in part by the retiree’s timing and insurance considerations. During discussion, the board addressed a discrepancy in the county’s vacation-payout practice: the written cap is 200 hours, but the record shows the employee had 216.5 hours on the books. Commissioners said the county paid the additional 16.5 hours and agreed the situation exposed weaknesses in how the policy was administered.

The board discussed balancing the fiscal liability of uncapped accrued time with fair treatment of employees. Speakers emphasized the need for both a clear written cap and a reliable notification mechanism so employees are alerted before they exceed the limit. They directed staff to bring policy revisions and administrative fixes forward so the county’s practice matches its stated policy and to codify notification procedures going forward.

A motion to approve the proposed contract was made, seconded and carried on a unanimous voice vote. Commissioner Coker voted aye; Commissioner Hollinger voted yes; the third commissioner likewise voted in favor.

The board recessed to discuss other items and then moved on to the next agenda matter.