Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves two full-time Jailer-Dispatchers as overtime and PFML strain staffing
Summary
Wadena County approved hiring two full-time Jailer-Dispatchers to address turnover, staff burnout and PFML impacts. Officials reported $30,000 in overtime year-to-date and estimated hiring two staff would cost $143,297.64; the board also approved a five-year Motorola dispatch agreement.
Jail Administrator Tim Stroeing and Sheriff Mike Carr told the Wadena County Board on April 7 that staffing shortages and Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) requirements have strained the Sheriff’s Office, producing increased overtime and coverage gaps. They asked the board to authorize two additional full-time Jailer-Dispatcher positions to improve shift coverage and retention.
The presenters reported $30,000 in overtime year-to-date and estimated overtime could exceed $120,000 by year end. "The anticipated financial impact of hiring 2 additional full time Jailer-Dispatchers is $143,297.64," the board was told. Commissioners discussed funding options including leaving the Sheriff's budget unchanged until year end or using Public Safety funds if necessary. Commissioner Bill Stearns moved to hire two additional full-time Jailer-Dispatchers; Commissioner Bryan Winkels seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Separately, the board approved a five-year Motorola Solutions Connectivity Service Order to operate the 911 dispatch center. After negotiations removed the Analytics portion (saving $9,000), the five-year total is $131,928, to be paid from the E 911 Fund, for the term July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2031. Commissioner Jon Kangas moved and Commissioner Winkels seconded the motion; it carried unanimously.
