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Council urged to consider temporary pay, but told to seek state guidance on 'ghost employment' rules
Summary
The council discussed covering the shortfall between workers' comp and full salary for an injured officer (about $2,740/week) and was advised to seek State Board of Accounts confirmation before approving extra pay; a separate request for a one‑time bonus for Officer Ganon was raised.
Council members discussed whether the town can bridge the gap between workers' compensation and the full salary of an officer who is currently injured and off duty. The transcript records the shortfall as about $2,740 per week and several council members expressed concern for the officer's welfare while also noting legal constraints.
The council heard a warning about the so‑called 'ghost employment' statute that may prohibit paying someone who is not providing services. Because of that potential restriction, members repeatedly recommended getting confirmation from the State Board of Accounts before making any additional salary payments beyond workers' compensation; one member proposed making any payment conditional on state approval so the council could act quickly if permitted.
Separately, a council member publicly requested the town consider a one‑time bonus for Officer Ganon in recognition of service during recovery. Members acknowledged the suggestion but said the legal and precedent issues discussed earlier would have to be resolved before committing funds.
The council did not adopt a definitive policy at the July 8 meeting and instead directed staff or members to contact the State Board of Accounts for guidance and to share medical timeline information about the officer’s recovery so the board can assess legality and auditing risk.
No formal motion to pay additional salary or to authorize a bonus was recorded in the transcript.
