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Commissioners approve MOU to let pre‑release staff volunteer overtime at county prison amid staffing shortages
Summary
To address staffing shortages at the Lycoming County Prison, commissioners approved a memorandum allowing pre‑release center staff to volunteer to work overtime at the prison. Discussion focused on payroll rate differences, union rules and IRS/payroll implications; staff said funds and procedural changes are being reviewed.
Lycoming County commissioners on June 8 approved a memorandum of understanding permitting pre‑release center staff to volunteer to work overtime at the county prison to cover mandatory posts amid a continuing staffing shortage.
Brad described the measure as an option discussed with unions to allow pre‑release staff to assist at the prison on voluntary overtime to reduce mandatory overtime burdens. Commissioners expressed questions about payroll mechanics and differences in pay rates when employees hold posts in more than one county job.
The county controller explained payroll complexities: having one employee in two county roles at two different rates complicates W‑2 reporting, retirement and payroll systems. Commissioners asked staff whether the MOU would pay employees at their existing rate with an override added to timecards; staff said they would clarify payroll procedures and federal/IRS considerations before final implementation.
Despite concerns, the board approved the MOU by voice vote. Commissioners and staff said the measure is intended as a short‑term operational fix while the county pursues longer‑term staffing solutions including recruitment and training efforts.
