Human Resources Committee approves reclassification to create crime victim specialist coordinator in DA office

The Sullivan County Human Resources Committee voted in favor of a resolution to abolish one crime victim's services advocate position and create one crime victim specialist coordinator in the District Attorney's Office. The committee recorded the measure as approved by voice vote, with the chair noting an affirmative count of five.

Julie, Human Resources staff, said the new role will take on broader policy and outreach responsibilities. "This position is different in the previous position and that it's, going to be policy and procedure, creating and it will include home visits, court visits, and contact with law enforcement agencies, schools, and various community partners," she said. Committee members asked whether the reclassification was budgeted; staff said the slot replaces a previously vacant, budgeted position and that the change is budget-neutral for the remainder of the year, though reclassification increases pay by about $11,000 compared with the prior range.

Committee members stressed timing concerns tied to an expiring contract at the end of September and the need to avoid a service gap in victim support. The chair moved the resolution, it received a second and passed by voice approval. The committee then proceeded to adjournment.