County Board Prepares for Budget Finalization and New Paid Leave Policies
As the end of the calendar year approaches, the county board is gearing up to finalize the 2026 budget and levy adjustments in December. This important financial planning session will also include discussions on various business items, including the establishment of a comprehensive paid leave policy to comply with new state regulations.
New Paid Leave Requirements
Beginning January 1, 2025, all employers in the state are mandated to provide paid family and medical leave to eligible employees. Under the newly established guidelines, workers with qualifying medical conditions can claim up to 12 weeks of paid leave. Additionally, employees are afforded the same duration to care for close relatives, enabling a total potential leave of up to 20 weeks within a calendar year when both medical and family leave are utilized.
During a meeting on November 25, the board took a significant step by approving funding agreements with three distinct bargaining units representing county employees. Each agreement stipulates that the county will shoulder 50% of the premiums associated with the paid leave program, while the remaining cost will be deducted from employees’ earnings.
In a noteworthy decision, the county opted against utilizing the state-run paid leave options. Instead, it secured a partnership with MetLife after determining that their insurance premium was more financially viable. As part of this contract, MetLife will collect a premium of 0.79% based on total payroll costs, amounting to an estimated annual expenditure of ,000. Of this figure, approximately ,500 will be funded through employee contributions in accordance with the agreed premium sharing arrangement.
County Administrator Kristen Trebil-Halbersma indicated that the costs associated with this paid leave policy had already been anticipated and included within the framework of the upcoming budget.
Enhancing Public Communications
In addition to budgetary considerations, the board also addressed the need to enhance public communication efforts by approving the appointment of a Public Information Coordinator. Following the retirement of Todd Ford, Danielle Hefferan will take over this crucial role. Trebil-Halbersma emphasized that centralizing public communications within one position is essential for maintaining transparency in county operations. Human Resources Director Allison Plummer echoed this sentiment, noting that a dedicated coordinator would ensure consistent messaging across various departments.
Revisiting Commissioner Compensation
Another pertinent topic discussed in the meeting was the compensation of county commissioners. Each year, the board evaluates its pay structure, opening the floor for discussions on potential salary adjustments. While no decisions were formalized during the latest meeting, the topic is timely, especially as the board considers incorporating the consumer price index—utilized in previous years—as a benchmark for salary increases. This issue will require prompt attention as the budget must be finalized before the end of the year.
As the board prepares for its December meeting and the associated fiscal responsibilities, these agenda points signal a pivotal time for the county’s governance and financial direction.
For more insights on upcoming county initiatives and policy changes, WTIP will continue to provide coverage and updates.
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