Supervisors approve up to $68,500 to continue strategic‑planning and accountability work

The Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors approved a contract amendment May 12 for Performance Resources Consulting to continue leadership training, employee‑engagement (GAPM) surveys and performance management support, authorizing services not to exceed $68,500.

Staff and HR representatives described a multi-part package that includes leadership‑university sessions for managers, an ongoing GAPM (employee engagement survey) subscription with an option to lock a three‑year price, and targeted performance‑management and human‑capital support. The consultant proposed a mix of workshop sessions, follow‑up action‑planning and coaching for county champions responsible for carrying changes into departments.

Supporters said most of the training had been budgeted across departments and that a front‑loaded payment could secure a modest discount. One HR presenter told the board that departments had already budgeted for leadership training and that the county had largely allocated funds to cover the proposed work. "What we're looking for is about 40 grand that we have to make up for," the presenter said, describing remaining costs after departmental contributions.

Board members discussed scope, timing and contract protections in the event a consultant becomes unavailable; supervisors also emphasized the need to convert training into sustained internal capacity and repeated practice over years. After discussion, the board passed a resolution authorizing the contract amendment for services not to exceed $68,500 and directed staff to finalize a scope and schedule for fiscal year 2026–27 activities.

What’s next: Staff will finalize the contract amendment, schedule workshops and report back on a timeline and the proposed training calendar.