Decatur County raises travel per diem to $60, requires receipts and allows tips up to 15%

The Decatur County commissioners voted June 15 to increase the county travel per diem to $60 per day and to require receipts for reimbursement, and they amended the travel policy to allow tips of up to 15%. The votes were taken during a discussion about inconsistencies in how other counties handle per diem and whether advances should be permitted.

Commissioners debated whether the per diem should be given in advance or reimbursed after travel. One commissioner said receipts should be required so employees cannot pocket unused funds; another noted some counties simply give the per diem without receipts. After discussion, the chair moved to increase the per diem to $60 per day and to require receipts; the motion passed with the board indicating “motion carries.”

The board also approved an amendment permitting gratuities up to 15% when meals are reimbursed. Commissioners clarified that county credit cards should not be used to pay for meals and discussed how tax and tip charges appearing on card receipts should be handled for reimbursement.

Why it matters: The change raises the maximum reimbursable daily amount for county employees traveling on official business and tightens documentation requirements. Commissioners said the update was meant to reduce inconsistent practices and ensure the county reimburses reasonable expenses.

What’s next: Commissioners asked staff to update and circulate the revised travel policy, including specifics on credit-card use and whether a half-day per diem rate should be formally documented. The board’s vote concluded the policy change; implementation details will be distributed to departments.