HomeMy WebLinkAboutPersonnel Committee - Agenda - 1/5/2023
Bayfield County Administrator
117 E 5th Street, PO Box 878, Washburn, WI 54891
Ph: 715-373-6181 Fx: 715-373-6153
Mark Abeles-Allison, County Administrator
Kristine Kavajecz, Human Resources Director
Paige Terry, Clerk
BAYFIELD COUNTY
PERSONNEL COMMITTEE MEETING
Brett Rondeau, Chair Fred Strand
Mary Dougherty, Vice-Chair Dennis Pocernich Marty Milanowski
Dear County Board Members:
This letter is written to inform you of the Bayfield County Personnel Committee
Meeting scheduled for 4:00pm Thursday, January 5, 2023. This meeting will be
held Remotely and In Person at the Bayfield County Board Room, Bayfield
County Courthouse, Washburn, WI. Supervisors and the public will be able to
participate in the Meeting via voice either by using the internet link or phone
number below.
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Please contact Bayfield County at 715-373-6181 or 715-373-6100 if you have access
questions prior to the meeting. During the meeting if you have connection issues please
email mark.abeles-allison@bayfieldcounty.wi.gov
Notice is hereby given that a majority of the Bayfield County Board may be present at the meeting to gather
information about a subject over which they have decision-making responsibility. This constitutes a meeting of
the Bayfield County Board pursuant to State ex rel. Badke v. Greendale Village Bd., 173 Wis. 2d 553, 494
N.W.2d 408(1993), and must be noticed as such, although the County Board will not take any formal action at
this meeting.
AGENDA
1. Call to order
2. Public Comment
3. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Approval of Minutes of December 1,
2022
4. Bayfield County Elected Official Introductions:
a. Tony Williams, Bayfield County Sheriff
b. Deidre Zifko, Bayfield County Clerk of Court / Register in Probate
c. Tom Renz, Bayfield County Coroner
5. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Code of Conduct Section of the
Personnel Manual
6. Discussion and Possible Action regarding Telecommuting Policy
7. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Nursing Supervisor Position
8. Reports
a) Personnel Financial Report as of December 31, 2022
b) HR Report
c) Leave Balances
9. The committee may enter in and out of closed session pursuant to Wisconsin
Statutes §19.85(1) (c) Considering employment, promotion, compensation or
performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the
governmental body has jurisdiction or exercises responsibility and
(e) Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing
of public funds, or conducting other specified public business, whenever
competitive or bargaining reasons require a closed session. Discussion and
Possible action Regarding:
i. Approve Closed Session Minutes, December 1, 2022
ii. WPPA Negotiations
iii. Employee Reclassification
Should you have any questions in the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact
the County Administrator’s Office at 715 373-6181, mark.abeles-
allison@bayfieldcounty.wi.gov
Sincerely,
Mark Abeles-Allison
Mark Abeles-Allison
Bayfield County Administrator
MAA/kak
Enc.
Any person planning to attend a Bayfield County meeting that has a disability requiring special
accommodations should contact 373-6100, 24-hours before the scheduled meeting, so
appropriate arrangements can be made.
cc: Ms. Lynn Divine, Bayfield County Clerk
Bayfield County Board of Supervisors
The Daily Press, via email
PERSONNEL COMMITTEE NARRATIVE
JANUARY 5, 2023
Item 4: Newly elected officials were invited to meet the Committee and learn the role of the Personnel
Committee as it relates to their departments.
Item 5. Attached is the Code of Conduct section of the personnel manual. Several modifications are
shown as proposed. This section of the code focuses on equitable and consistent discipline for
unsatisfactory conduct in the workplace. Action by the Committee would result in updates of the
Bayfield County Personnel Manual.
Item 6. A special committee considering a Telecommuting Policy met throughout 2022. Attached is a
final proposal for a Bayfield County Policy.
Item 7. In early 2022 the Personnel Committee approved the establishment of a Public Health Nurse
Supervisor through end of 2023. The Health Department is about to make this appointment. We would
like to recommend that this be a permanent appointment to provide additional supervisory leadership
for the Nursing staff. Health department and grant funds are sufficient to cover this expense.
Item 8. Attached reports include the:
• Financial Report, as of 12/23, personnel budgeted items as percentage of budget. Major
changes occurred in 2022 as it relates to personnel expenses including wage reclassifications
and hour modifications for some salaried employees.
o General Fund: 99%
o Human Services: 72%
o Highway: 97%
• HR Report: 166 interviews and 81 hires for the year 2022. This is down very slightly from 2021
when we hit 171 interviews.
• Overall leave balances, as of December 23 (still subject to change)
SICK OLD SICK-NEW VACATION VAC CARRYOVER VAC RH
2020 $862K $448K $349K $5K $5K
2021 $683k $471k $333k $12k $600
2022: $686k $518k $350k $10k $90
Minutes of the
Bayfield County Personnel Committee Meeting
2:00 PM, December 1, 2022
Meeting was Held In Person in the County Board Room
Members Present: Fred Strand, Marty Milanowski, Brett Rondeau, Dennis Pocernich, Mary
Dougherty
Excused:
Others Present: Mark Abeles-Allison County Administrator, Kristine Kavajecz-Human
Resources Director, Rich Burghaus, Chris Benton, Dave Renz Jr, Dave Dawson
Meeting called to order at 2:00pm by Chairman Rondeau
Public Comment: None received.
Minutes of November 3, 2022: Motion Strand, Milanowski to approve minutes of the
November 3, 2022 Personnel Committee meeting. Motion Carried (5-0)
Motion Pocernich, Milanowski to enter into closed session pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes
§19.85(1) (c) Considering employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation
data of any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction or exercises
responsibility and (e) Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the
investing of public funds, or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or
bargaining reasons require a closed session. Approve Closed Session Minutes, November 3,
2022, Discussion and Possible Action regarding WPPA negotiations and consider employee
reclassification requests. Motion Carried. (5-0) Entered closed session at 2:01pm.
Motion Pocernich, Milanowski to return to open session. Motion Carried (5-0)
Returned to open session at 3:14pm.
Standard of Employee Conduct Policy: No update
Tuition Assistance Program:
Motion Strand, Dougherty to modify the tuition assistance program to $1,000 per semester,
$2,000 per year effective January 1, 2023. Motion Carried (5-0)
Reports
a) Personnel Financial Report as of November 2022: Reviewed by Abeles-Allison.
Nothing of concern.
b) HR Report: Reviewed by Kavajecz.
Motion Milanowski, Pocernich to return to closed session. Motion Carried (5-0) Returned to
closed session at 3:32pm
Meeting adjourned at 4:00pm.
Minutes respectfully submitted by Kristine Kavajecz
Section IV. Employee Conduct, Performance Evaluation, Discipline and
Separation From Employment.
4.1 Standards of Employee Conduct
The purpose of this policy is to state Bayfield County’s general approach to administering
equitable and consistent discipline for unsatisfactory conduct in the workplace. Bayfield
County’s own best interest lies in ensuring fair treatment of all employees and in making
certain that disciplinary actions are prompt, uniform, and impartial.
In addition to the procedures, rules and standards outlined in this Manual and any
departmental policies and procedures, the following work rules and standards for work
at Bayfield County provide a basic outline for expected employee conduct while employed
with the County. This list of work rules and standards is not meant to be all inclusive nor
exclusive, but is an indication of what the County expects from its employees. Work rules
and standards are also found in numerous other documents, e. g. collective bargaining
agreements, the County's safety manual and Departmental materials. Violations of any
of the County’s rules or standards found in this Manual or any other source will be
considered employee misconduct and will subject the employee to disciplinary action up
to and including discharge from employment.
4.1.1. Property and Premises. It is expected that employees will:
a. Use county property and equipment only for work purposes unless,
in limited circumstances, there has been prior approval from
employee's supervisor.
b. Follow all rules, regulations, and practices relating to the safe use
and security of County property and premises.
c. Use county keys, fobs, cards, and access codes properly. Employees
may not duplicate keys or share access codes unless authorized.
d. Observe traffic and/or parking regulations and directives on County
premises and/or work time.
e. Charge only work-related telephone expenses on County telephone
equipment.
f. Use County postage for work purposes only.
g. Not negligently or willfully damage County property and equipment.
4.1.2. Attendance. It is expected that employees will:
a. Be allowed only excused absences and excused late arrivals.
b. Be at the assigned work area at the start and end of shifts, breaks,
and meal periods.
c. Leave the place of work during working hours only as authorized and
will not waste time or loiter.
d. Not work any hours outside of their schedule without prior approval.
a. e. Not misuse or abuse paid sick leave.
f. Employees will pProvide documentation in a timely manner from a
qualified medical practitioner when requested by the employer.
g. Use the approved method to notify their supervisor of their inability
to work their scheduled shift. Each department will establish its own
policy/procedure for call-ins.
b. h. Appropriately report work hours.
4.1.3. Performance. Without limitation, it is expected that employees will:
a. Adequately perform the duties of the assigned position;position.
b. Perform all assigned duties in a competent and efficient manner.
c. Not restrict output or engage in any intentional slowdown, work
stoppage, or unauthorized strike.
d. Not engage in any activity which distracts or disrupts other
employees on the performance of their duties.
e. Not engage in any pursuit which may interfere with the proper
discharge of his/her duties and responsibilities as an employee of
Bayfield County.
f. Maintain all licenses and certifications required of their position.
4.1.4. Conduct. Without limitation, it is expected that employees will:
a. a. Follow all supervisory written and/or oral directions.
b. Not circumvent the chain of command or undermine the authority
of a supervisor.
c. Interact professionally and respectfully with supervisors, co-workers
and the public in all interactions whether verbal or written.
d. Not make intimidating, threatening, hostile, false or malicious
statements, including rumor mongering, gossiping, and false
reports of harassment or violence.
e. Not publicly represent the County in a manner that has not been
authorized in advance including via social media, to media outlets,
at public events or other forums.
f. Not participate in unlawful or improper conduct during non-
working hours which affects the employee's relationship to their
job, their fellow employees, management, or the County's
reputation in the community.
g. Not refuse to communicate or speak with a co-worker, supervisor
or other individual when necessary for work purposes.
hb. Comply with the departmental work rules and expectations.
ic. Not use offensive language toward or threaten, intimidate, coerce,
abuse, or harass employees, supervisors, the public, other providers,
etc.
jd. Maintain appropriate, well-groomed appearance and dress.
ke. Report to work sober and not under the influence of alcoholic
beverages, narcotics, drugs, or other controlled substances or have
possession of the above.
lf. Be awake and attentive during work hours.
m. Not promote, or participate in, indecent, criminal, or inappropriate
conduct including, without limitation, fraud, dishonesty or theft.
c.
hn. Comply with the prohibited weapons policy.
oi. Not engage in personal or outside business activities during work
hours.
pj. Not engage in illegal gambling activities during work hours.
qk. Not engage in physical activities on county property that are
inconsistent with the employee’s regular job duties or county-
sponsored activities that could result in injury to self or others.
rl. Represent the county appropriately and at all times and shall treat
co-employees and the public in a courteous manner.
sm. Not be insubordinate or engage in willful misconduct.
tn. Not engage in any conduct which violates the rules, policies or
procedures in this Manual.
uo. Report any arrests, charges and/or convictions to the Human
Resources Department. Not be convicted of a felony or misdemeanor
the circumstances of which are substantially related to the duties
performed.
vp. Be honest and truthful in all matters relating to his/her employment
including, without limitation, securing employment with the County.
wq. Cooperate with all County investigations.
xr. If the employee’s position involves using a county vehicle, employee
must report any traffic violation (on or off duty) to their Supervisor.
4.1.5. Records. Without limitation, it is expected that employees will:
a. Be truthful and accurate in preparing any employment related
documents including, without limitation, job applications, resume’s,
time cardstimecards and leave requests.
b. Be truthful and accurate when preparing County records and will not
falsify, modify, or make other unauthorized alterations to any County
record.
a. Maintain the confidentiality of records and information per statutes,
rules, and/or directives and will not make unauthorized disclosures of
such information.
b. Shall not attempt to or request access to confidential information or
records unless necessary for the work being performed and is within the
scope of the position.
4.1.6. Code of Ethics. It is the intention of Bayfield County to inspire persons
covered under this policy to secure and maintain the respect and confidence of
the people of the County. State statutes set forth various forms of conduct, which
are deemed to be unlawful. This policy is not intended to outline these forms of
prohibited conduct. The items in this policy do not require a specific intention to
do wrong; rather they are the mere acts themselves which in doing, cast
substantial doubt upon the integrity of the County and the person involved.
The following conduct on the part of a person covered under this policy will be
deemed unethical:
a. No person shall use his/her position to obtain preferential treatment
or obtain financial gain for himself or herself or his or her immediate family
or for any business or organization with which he or she is associated.
b. No person shall disclose or use inside information concerning
Bayfield County to promote a private financial gain.
c. No person shall receive or offer to receive, either directly or
indirectly, any gift (as defined by CFR 2635.203), gratuity or thing of value
which they are not authorized to receive from any person if such person:
1. Has or is seeking to obtain contractual or other business or
financial relationships with the County or subunits of the County; or
2. Conducts operations or activities which are regulated by the
County or its subunits; or
3. Has an interest, which may be substantially affected by the
County.
Gift includes any gratuity, favor, discount, entertainment, hospitality, loan, forbearance,
or other item having monetary value. It includes services as well as gifts of training,
transportation, local travel, lodgings and meals, whether provided in-kind, by purchase
of a ticket, payment in advance, or reimbursement after the expense has incurred.
The definition of Gift EXCLUDES:
(1) Modest items of food and non-alcoholic refreshments, such as soft drinks,
coffee and donuts, offered other than as part of a meal;
(2) Greeting cards and items with little intrinsic value, such as plaques,
certificates, and trophies, which are intended primarily for presentation;
(3) Loans from banks and other financial institutions on terms generally
available to the public;
(4) Opportunities and benefits, including favorable rates and commercial
discounts, available to the public or to a class consisting of all Government
employees or all uniformed military personnel, whether or not restricted on the
basis of geographic considerations;
(5) Rewards and prizes given to competitors in contests or events, including
random drawings, open to the public unless the employee’s entry into the contest
or event is required as part of the employee’s official duties;
(6) Pension and other benefits resulting from continued participation in an
employee welfare and benefits plan maintained by a current or former employer;
(7) Anything which is paid for by the Government or secured by the
Government under Government contract;
(8) Free attendance to an event provided by the sponsor of the event to;
(i) An employee who is assigned to present information on
behalf of the agency at the event on any day when the
employee is presenting;
(ii) An employee whose presence on any day of the event is
deemed to be essential by the agency to the presenting
employee's participation in the event, provided that the
employee is accompanying the presenting employee; and
(iii) The spouse or one other guest of the presenting
employee on any day when the employee is presenting,
provided that others in attendance will generally be
accompanied by a spouse or other guest, the offer of free
attendance for the spouse or other guest is unsolicited,
and the agency designee, orally or in writing, has
authorized the presenting employee to accept;
(9) Any gift accepted by the Government under specific statutory authority;
(10) Anything for which market value is paid by the employee.
Examples of Gifts and applicable scenarios are detailed in Appendix G of this
manual.
Any violation of this section will result in disciplinary action being taken against the
person(s) involved up to and including discharge.
4.1.7 Fraud Prevention Policy. Bayfield County must protect the county
organization, taxpayers, employees and assets against financial risks, operational
breaches and unethical activities. Management must clearly communicate fraud
prevention policies to internal and external customers, vendors and employees.
The impact of misconduct and dishonesty includes:
• Loss of public confidence
• Financial losses
• Damage to the reputation of the county and its employees
• Negative publicity
• The cost of investigation
• Loss of employees
• Damaged relationships with contractors and suppliers
• Litigation
Bayfield County’s goal is to establish and maintain an environment of fairness,
ethics and honesty for employees, citizens, suppliers and anyone else with whom
Bayfield County has a relationship. To maintain such an environment requires the
active assistance of every employee and manager every day.
Bayfield County is committed to the deterrence, detection and correction of
misconduct and dishonesty. The discovery, reporting and documentation of
fraudulent acts provides a sound foundation for the protection of innocent parties.
Disciplinary action against offenders including recovery of assets, dismissal and
where appropriate, referral to law enforcement agencies shall be the norm.
POLICY STATEMENT
Bayfield County has adopted a policy regarding fraud. Employees shall not misuse
County assets for personal gain, or willfully misappropriate any Bayfield County
asset. Evidence supporting fraud, theft or embezzlement of Bayfield County assets
and equipment may be subject to suspension, termination, restitution and criminal
charges. Any Bayfield County employee who is aware of fraud being committed
against the County by anyone shall report such activity to their Department Head,
the County Administrator’s Office or Sheriff’s Office.
PROHIBITED ACTS
Fraud is defined as intentional deception, misappropriation of resources or the
manipulation of data to the advantage or disadvantage of a person or entity.
Some examples of fraud include:
• Authorizing or receiving compensation for goods not received or services
not performed
• Alteration or falsification of records
• Theft or misappropriation of cash or fixed assets
• Falsification of expenses and invoices
• Failure to account for monies collected
• Knowingly providing false information on job applications
• Authorizing or receiving compensation for hours not worked
• Embezzlement, bribery or conspiracy
• Obtaining or giving of any county property without going through proper
sale /purchase procedure.
REPORTING OF FRAUD
a. Employees shall read and understand this policy. Additionally,
suspected or known fraudulent acts by employees shall be reported to
their respective Department Head. If the employee has reason to
believe that a Department Head may be involved, the employee shall
notify the County Administrator or Sheriff’s Office directly.
b. Supervisors shall a) communicate the provisions of this policy to all staff;
b) take no action without consulting the Administrator; c) recommend
appropriate disciplinary action when there is evidence of wrong-doing;
and d) if suspension or termination is recommended, consult with the
County Administrator’s Office.
c. Department Heads shall communicate any suspected or known
fraudulent act to the County Administrator or Sheriff’s Office. The
Sheriff’s Office will notify the County Administrator of criminal incidents
and keep the County Administrator abreast of the investigation.
d. Participants in a fraud investigation shall keep the details and results of
the investigation confidential.
e. Employees reporting an act of fraud; or assisting, testifying or
participating in a fraud investigation, acting in accordance with the
requirement of this policy, shall not be subject to any adverse
employment action unless it is determined the employee is culpable for
such action and/or made an allegation knowing it was false. Examples
of adverse employment action include, but are not limited to, discipline,
suspension, threatening to discipline or suspend, coercion, acts of
intimidation and firing.
f. Complaints of Fraud should be in writing and can be anonymous. All
fraud accusations, whether in writing and signed or not, shall be
documented and shared with the County Administrator.
FALSE ALLEGATIONS
False allegations of suspected fraud with the intent to disrupt or cause harm to
another may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of
employment.
DETERRING FRAUD AND CORRUPTION
The County has established internal controls, policies and procedures in an effort
to deter, prevent and detect fraud and corruption. It is the responsibility of
Department Heads and the County Administrator to ensure that adequate controls
are in place at all times within their departments.
All new full-time employees are subject to background investigations including a
criminal background check(s).
Vendors, contractors, and suppliers may be subject to screening, including
verification of the individual or company’s status as a debarred party.
When necessary, contractual agreements with the County may contain a provision
prohibiting fraudulent or corruptive acts and will include information about
reporting fraud and corruption.
County employees will periodically receive fraud and corruption awareness
training. New employees will receive this policy as part of their training at
orientation.
Annually department heads will review internal fraud prevention policies and
control mechanisms and make any required updates to internal controls. These
discussions shall include:
• Issuance of cash receipts in all situations
• Tracking of petty cash
• Tracking of all county bank accounts through the Treasurer’s office.
• Separation of duties
• Credit card procedures
• Counter signing of checks, at least two signatures on all checks.
• Mandatory vacations
• Annual reporting of auditor findings to the county Executive Committee
• Separation of cash and accounting records at all times.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Determination regarding action against an employee, vendor, recipient or other
person found to have committed fraud or corruption will be made by the County
Administrator and Personnel Committee with notification to the appropriate law
enforcement entity as required.
Offenders at all levels of the County will be treated equally regardless of their
position or years of service with the County. Determinations will be made based
on a finding of facts in each case, actual or potential damage to the County,
cooperation by the offender and legal requirements.
Depending on the seriousness of the offense and the facts of each individual case,
action against an employee can range from written reprimand to legal action-either
civil or criminal in addition to termination. In all cases, involving monetary losses
to the County, the County will pursue recovery of losses.
4.2 Performance Evaluation
Bayfield County recognizes the value of employee performance evaluations. The goal of
this policy is to promote the utmost productivity of all County employees. The
performance evaluation process is intended to:
a. Assess an employee's work effectiveness.
b. Help improve individual performance.
c. Identify training needs.
d. Recognize employee accomplishments and good work.
e. Identify job requirements and standards.
f. Guide in decisions affecting placement, transfers, salary,
consideration, promotions, demotions, and terminations.
Employee performance is evaluated on an ongoing basis over the course of a year. In
addition, the County conducts formal written evaluations for all employees on a quarterly
basis during the first year of employment with the County and on an annual basis
thereafter.
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TELECOMMUTING POLICY
5.4 Telecommuting
5.4.1 POLICY: Bayfield County is committed to providing a work environment and culture
where the needs of our customers, employees and the organization are aligned.
Bayfield County believes that onsite direct customer contact is often the most effective.
Bayfield County also understands how customer convenience for remote access can be
combined with employee telecommuting.
Bayfield County strives to provide a flexible work environment as part of a strategy to aid
departments in attracting, motivating, and retaining a highly qualified and skilled workforce
while providing a high level of customer service. Telecommuting arrangements allow
employees flexibility to perform work from an alternate location while delivering quality
services.
5.4.2 DEFINITIONS
A. Principal Work Location: The work location the employee is assigned to when not
telecommuting. This is the primary department/office/location that the employee is
assigned to.
B. Recurring Telecommuting: The performance of job duties on a regular, recurring basis,
at an approved location other than the employee’s principal work location.
C. Situational Telecommuting: The performance of job duties on a short-term, one-time or
irregularly occurring basis at an approved location other than the employee’s principal
work location.
D. Telecommuting Arrangement: A work schedule and outline of deliverables outlined in a
telecommuting agreement.
E. Telecommuting Request Form: A formal request from an employee which outlines their
proposal for a telecommuting arrangement.
F. Telecommuting Agreement: A signed document that outlines the understanding
between the department and the employee regarding the work schedule and
deliverables of the telecommuting arrangement. It is not a contract and can be changed
or cancelled at any time at the discretion of the department.
G. Telecommuting Location: Refers to the approved alternative office location in which an
employee is authorized to conduct work off-site. In most cases, the telecommuting
location will be an office-space in an employee’s home.
5.4.3 SITUATIONAL TELECOMMUTING
Situational telecommuting arrangements may be approved for circumstances such as inclement
weather or unanticipated illness/injury in which the employee is still able to fulfill their job
duties. These arrangements may be approved on an as-needed basis only, with no expectation
of ongoing continuance.
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Situational, short-term arrangements may be authorized for employees to the extent practical
for the employee and the organization, focusing first on the business needs of the
organization.
Situational, short-term arrangements must be authorized by the Department Head/Manager
and are subject to the criteria of the Telecommuting Policy.
Situational Telecommuting arrangements shall be for a duration of 14 days or less. The
arrangement may be extended under special circumstances as approved by the County
Administrator or designee.
5.4.4 ELIGIBILITY
Determination that a position may or may not be appropriate for a telecommuting
agreement is made on a case-by-case basis at the department level with review by the
County Administrator or designee.
The use of telecommuting is at the sole discretion of the department. Not all work
situations are appropriate for telecommuting, nor is telecommuting appropriate for all
employees. A department that allows telecommuting must ensure that an appropriate work
environment and appropriate framework of expectations exists, as outlined below.
A. EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS
a. Compliance with Federal/State Employment Laws. Telecommuting agreements
must comply with state and federal employment laws that apply to all county
employees. This includes the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) which regulates the
payment of overtime.
b. Job Duties and Responsibilities. The job duties, responsibilities, and obligations of
the position as well as the related terms and conditions of employment are not
affected by telecommuting status.
B. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
a. Performance Related Criteria:
1. Employee has no personnel-related disciplinary action or performance
concerns.
2. Employee has demonstrated good communication suitability.
3. Employee has demonstrated good time management skills.
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4. Appropriate Attendance History (excluding Family Medical Leave absences and
Americans with Disabilities accommodations).
5. Employee has demonstrated ability to complete work projects with minimal
supervision.
6. Employee has been employed for a minimum of three months, has completed
all initial training, and has received a meets expectations rating on their initial
quarterly performance evaluation. This requirement may be waived in special
circumstances if authorized by the County Administrator or designee.
7. Employee has strong technology skills allowing them to troubleshoot and
resolve basic technology issues away independently.
b. Job Related Criteria/Considerations
1. Primarily applicable to permanent, full-time or part-time, employees.
2. Overall business/department need.
3. Ability to provide adequate supervision of the employee remotely.
4. Effects of telecommuting on customer services
5. Costs to be saved or incurred.
6. The need or availability of equipment
7. Existence of well-defined job objectives and output that can be assessed.
8. Telecommuting location has reliable phone and strong internet (at least 25
Mbps down and 2 Mbps up) access.
9. Portable job duties
10. Availability of a telecommuting location suitable for performing work duties.
5.4.5 EXPECTATIONS:
A. EMPLOYEE EXPECTATIONS
a. Work Time. Telecommuting hours are regular work hours. Telecommuting is not
intended to permit staff to have time to work at other jobs, provide dependent care
during work hours, or run their own businesses.
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b. Work Schedule/Meetings. The work schedule, including normal workday hours,
breaks and core hours, and use of vacation and sick leave will be established by the
supervisor and the employee within the framework of the FLSA and department
policy.
1. Core hours are those hours during which the employee is expected to be
available to communicate with the supervisor, co-workers or the public by
telephone, e-mail, fax, etc. The supervisor will determine the number of days
per week/payroll period that the employee will be allowed to telecommute.
Work hours in excess of those outlined in the Telecommuting Agreement, for
non-exempt employees, must be pre-approved.
2. Work hours shall follow parameters outlined in Section 5.1 of the Personnel
Policy Manual unless special circumstances warrant work outside of the standard
work hours and with pre-approval by the Department Head.
3. The employee will be expected to attend all assigned meetings relating to the
performance of the job, including those which would normally be held on a
telecommuting day. The supervisor will determine whether the employee’s
attendance at the meeting must be in-person at the principal work location, or if
the employee may attend the meeting from the telecommuting location.
4. At the discretion of the department, the employee may be required to report to
the principal work location on short notice. Recurring telecommuting
agreements shall require that an employee be able to report for short-notice on-
site work within four (4) hours.
5. Duration of a Recurring telecommuting agreement shall be at the discretion of
the Department Head based on the needs of the organization.
c. Location and Travel. The principal work location for the employee is the office
location they are assigned to when not telecommuting.
1. Mileage between the employee’s telecommuting location and the principal work
location shall be considered commuting mileage and is not subject to
reimbursement.
2. If the employee is working at an alternative work site (not the telecommuting
location and not the principal work site), the employee shall follow the county’s
Personnel Policy regarding mileage reimbursement eligibility.
3. Employees utilizing a recurring telecommuting arrangement shall be required to
work on-site at the primary department a minimum of one day per quarter.
5 | P a g e
d. Communications. Employees must be reachable by clients, co-workers, as well as
the supervisor during agreed upon hours. Employees must notify assigned office
staff if they leave their telecommuting location during work hours just as they would
if they were at the principal work location. They must also notify the supervisor if
they are not performing work due to illness or personal reasons and must follow the
normal procedures for requesting time off.
e. Supplies and Expenses. Office supplies needed for the telecommuting location will
be obtained through the normal supply request procedures and picked up at the
workplace if possible. An employee must seek prior approval from the supervisor
for expenses that will be incurred. Approved expenses will be reimbursed in
accordance with existing policies.
f. Hardware/Software. The employee’s department will work with the Information
Technology Department to determine the appropriate equipment needs for each
telecommuting arrangement on a case-by-case basis.
1. The employee will sign an inventory of all county-owned equipment located at
their telecommuting location and agree to take appropriate action to protect the
items from damage or theft.
2. At their discretion, Bayfield County will provide computer, hardware, software
and/or cell phone as deemed necessary to perform assigned work away from the
principal work location.
3. Employee is responsible for providing adequate internet service.
4. Bayfield County is responsible for maintenance, and repair of the county-owned
equipment and upgrades of software and will assist the employee with questions
related to installation and ongoing performance of the equipment and software.
5. Equipment, hardware and software furnished by the County remain the property
of the county and are subject to the same business use restrictions as if the
property were located at the principal work location. To ensure hardware and
software security for county-owned equipment, all software used for
telecommuting must be approved by the Information Technology Department.
County-owned software shall not be installed on employee-owned hardware
unless authorized by the county. Employee-owned software shall not be
installed on county-owned hardware.
6. Home computers will not be allowed to connect to the county network.
7. Computers are for Bayfield County use only and are not for personal use.
g. Responsibilities When Telecommuting Location is in the Home. The employee is
responsible for establishing and maintaining a safe and adequate telecommuting
location in the home. The designated location may be subject to review and
approval by the supervisor, including a request for site photos in addition to an
annual on-site inspection, to ensure that it is conducive to performing work. The
employee will be responsible for all costs related to modifications of the
6 | P a g e
telecommuting location including but not limited to remodeling or electrical
modifications, Wi-Fi network, etc.
h. Privacy and Security. Employees needing restricted access to confidential or
sensitive information while working at a telecommuting location will discuss the
need with their supervisor.
1. The information type will be documented in the telecommuting agreement
before the employee may take the information off-site. Employees are
responsible for protecting the privacy and confidentiality of data at their
telecommuting location the same as they would be in the principal work
location.
2. Employees must ensure the security of data and information that is transported
to and from their telecommuting location.
3. Employees in a telecommuting agreement must comply with all Bayfield County
policies and procedures concerning the handling of Confidential and Protected
Health Information, as well as use of computers, internet and email. It is
expected that employees fully review and be familiar with these policies.
4. Employees in a telecommuting agreement must have a signed Personnel Manual
Acknowledgement, Confidentiality and Ethics Agreement on file. All policies
applicable at the principal work location extend to the telecommuting location.
i. Equipment Liability. If employee-owned equipment is approved for use by the
department, the employee is responsible for repair, maintenance, and replacement.
j. Return of Equipment. Employees must return all county-owned hardware,
software, supplies, documents and other information or property to the principal
work location prior to termination of the telecommuting agreement or employment.
k. Notice to Supervisor. Employees are responsible for promptly notifying their
supervisor of an equipment malfunction or failure of either county-owned or
employee-owned equipment needed to do assigned work. If the malfunction
prevents the employee from performing assigned tasks, the employee must notify
the supervisor immediately. The employee may be assigned to perform different
tasks, to assist with repair or exchange of equipment, or to proceed to another work
location. It is the employee’s responsibility to ensure that backup work duties/plans
are in place.
l. Equipment Malfunction. If county equipment malfunctions while on a Recurring
Telecommuting Arrangement and the equipment must be returned to the IT Department for
repair or replacement, the employee may use regular work time to return/exchange the
equipment during their normal work schedule. This travel should be scheduled and
coordinated in advance to the extent possible to reduce frequency of trips. Ideally
equipment can be repaired/replaced the same day it is brought in.
7 | P a g e
m. Performance. The employee is responsible for maintaining exemplary work
performance. A decline in work performance will result in termination of the
telecommuting agreement.
n. Weather Emergencies. An employee who is scheduled to work at the
telecommuting location on an inclement weather day is expected to work as
scheduled, unless the telecommuting location is located outside of the home and is
also impacted by the inclement weather or the employee is otherwise excused from
working. All requirements in section 5.4.5A continue to apply in inclement weather
situations.
o. Taxes. Federal and state tax implications of telecommuting and use of a
telecommuting location are the responsibility of the employee.
B. SUPERVISOR EXPECTATIONS
a. Communication Plan. The supervisor must work with the employee to develop an
effective communication strategy. The communication strategy should ensure that
the employee effectively manages his or her workload and that telecommuting does
not have a negative impact on the employee’s co-workers and team. In addition,
the supervisor should maintain regular communication with the employee.
b. Performance Expectations Plan. The supervisor is responsible for developing a plan
that defines performance expectations and deliverables, and reviewing the plan with
the employee. At a minimum, the agreement, plan and deliverables will be reviewed
within 3 months of when the initial agreement is signed. Annual performance
evaluation should also include a performance review of the telecommuting
agreement.
c. Emergency Plan. The supervisor is responsible for developing emergency and back
up strategies with necessary phone numbers and a messaging plan in case of an
emergency (e.g., equipment failure).
d. Meetings. The supervisor should ensure that planned meeting schedules are
communicated in advance as soon as possible so employees are able to adjust their
work schedules and work location accordingly.
e. Training. The County Administrator’s office will provide Telecommuting policy
training to Department Heads as needed. Departments are encouraged to provide
training for supervisors and employees in order to ensure a successful
telecommuting program. For example, topics could include: telecommuting policy
and procedure, data security and privacy, FLSA, communication, injury reporting,
goal and standard setting, technology use and guidelines, safety, time tracking, etc.
8 | P a g e
f. Revocation. If an employee is not meeting telecommuting agreement deliverables,
the supervisor is responsible for discontinuing the telecommuting agreement and
explaining the rationale to the employee. Revocations can take effect immediately.
5.4.6 LIABILITY
A. When telecommuting, the employee’s workspace is considered an extension of their
principal work site for the employee only during the agreed upon working hours. The
designated telecommuting location must accommodate any equipment to be used in
the work performed.
B. The telecommuting location must be maintained to minimize damage to county-owned
property as if at the principal work site.
C. Bayfield County does not assume responsibility for third party injury or property
damage that may occur at the telecommuting location. In-person meetings with clients
and or visitors conducting business with Bayfield County will not be held at the
employee’s telecommuting location.
D. An employee is covered by Worker’s Compensation laws while telecommuting. Any
injury that occurs within the course and scope of employment must be reported to the
supervisor immediately, using the county’s standard injury reporting process. The
employee’s designated telecommuting location is considered an extension of the
principal work location, only during scheduled telecommuting hours for purposes of
Worker’s Compensation. Spaces deemed unsafe will not qualify for telecommuting.
5.4.7 PROCESS
Department Supervisors and or Administration retain the right to approve or deny requests
at their discretion based on the eligibility criteria. Expectations must be established for
monitoring performance and ensuring that client and business needs are met.
A. Request:
Employee completes the Telecommuting Request Form and submits to their
Supervisor/Department Head
B. Supervisor/Department Head evaluates the request based on eligibility criteria.
C. Supervisor/Department Head meets with the employee to review the request.
a. Informs employee of reasons why the request was denied, or proposes
modifications to the request -OR-
b. Approves the request.
D. Agreement: If the telecommuting request is approved, details of the arrangement are
detailed in the Telecommuting Agreement.
a. Agreement Contents:
1. Employee performance expectations.
2. Work hours and work schedule
9 | P a g e
3. Telecommuting Location
4. Equipment and Supplies
b. Signature. The agreement must be signed by the supervisor and employee prior to
the start of the telecommuting arrangement.
c. Cancellation. The telecommuting agreement can be changed or cancelled by the
employer at any time. A telecommuting agreement should be cancelled when the
employee has performance issues or a change in job responsibilities, or when the
needs of the department are not being met. The employee can also cancel the
agreement at any time by giving advance notice to his or her supervisor.
d. Duration of Telecommuting Agreement. The agreement is not open-ended. At least
annually, the supervisor and employee must discuss whether to continue the
arrangement. The arrangement must also be reviewed if there is a change in job
duties or supervisor.
e. The agreement will be sent to the County Administrator for review. If no response is
received within 5 days, the agreement is assumed to be approved.
Adopted Budget Amended Current Month YTD YTD Budget - YTD % Used/
Organization Budget Amendments Budget Transactions Encumbrances Transactions Transactions Rec'd Prior Year YTD
Fund 100 - General
EXPENSE
Department 00 - General Fund .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++681.37
Department 01 - County Board 49,519.00 .00 49,519.00 9,044.35 .00 61,702.06 (12,183.06)125 60,532.13
Department 02 - Clerk of Courts 346,277.00 .00 346,277.00 41,240.48 .00 350,179.05 (3,902.05)101 346,975.48
Department 04 - Criminal Justice 155,472.00 .00 155,472.00 17,889.45 .00 161,471.13 (5,999.13)104 145,094.02
Department 06 - Coroner 15,031.00 .00 15,031.00 2,825.55 .00 14,153.75 877.25 94 14,177.51
Department 07 - Administrator 291,164.00 .00 291,164.00 33,669.15 .00 296,523.78 (5,359.78)102 294,106.89
Department 08 - District Attorney 167,641.00 .00 167,641.00 18,898.12 .00 175,152.04 (7,511.04)104 170,359.60
Department 09 - Child Support 218,283.00 .00 218,283.00 23,932.32 .00 207,775.94 10,507.06 95 199,487.53
Department 10 - County Clerk 355,205.00 .00 355,205.00 40,379.13 .00 357,474.31 (2,269.31)101 358,146.86
Department 12 - Treasurer 155,144.00 .00 155,144.00 14,808.18 .00 131,496.38 23,647.62 85 159,244.09
Department 13 - Land Records 406,031.00 .00 406,031.00 44,527.31 .00 398,932.42 7,098.58 98 403,482.82
Department 14 - Court House 269,642.00 .00 269,642.00 30,244.65 .00 263,097.31 6,544.69 98 255,815.61
Department 15 - Register of Deeds 159,208.00 .00 159,208.00 18,137.03 .00 160,323.78 (1,115.78)101 153,894.67
Department 17 - Sheriff 3,868,112.00 .00 3,868,112.00 475,001.98 .00 3,631,070.86 237,041.14 94 3,789,915.45
Department 18 - Emergency Management 107,323.00 .00 107,323.00 13,221.24 .00 113,403.76 (6,080.76)106 132,246.87
Department 19 - Veteran's Services 107,498.00 .00 107,498.00 14,018.91 .00 113,309.53 (5,811.53)105 95,405.87
Department 20 - Health 780,246.00 6,528.00 786,774.00 89,322.76 .00 820,375.73 (33,601.73)104 731,695.74
Department 22 - Fair .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++.00
Department 23 - Tourism 197,877.00 .00 197,877.00 16,652.08 .00 191,497.00 6,380.00 97 176,670.93
Department 25 - UW Extension 95,121.00 .00 95,121.00 8,437.03 .00 86,610.82 8,510.18 91 91,536.08
Department 26 - Zoning 379,748.00 .00 379,748.00 51,811.91 .00 425,171.46 (45,423.46)112 377,771.18
Department 28 - Land Conservation 267,185.00 .00 267,185.00 36,792.56 .00 356,414.91 (89,229.91)133 285,354.53
Department 29 - Land Use Planning .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++.00
Department 31 - Information Services 310,296.00 .00 310,296.00 37,452.83 .00 315,414.45 (5,118.45)102 297,904.94
Department 34 - Forestry 1,000,277.00 .00 1,000,277.00 102,261.65 .00 945,428.53 54,848.47 95 911,939.89
EXPENSE TOTALS $9,702,300.00 $6,528.00 $9,708,828.00 $1,140,568.67 $0.00 $9,576,979.00 $131,849.00 99%$9,452,440.06
Fund 100 - General Totals
EXPENSE TOTALS 9,702,300.00 6,528.00 9,708,828.00 1,140,568.67 .00 9,576,979.00 131,849.00 99%9,452,440.06
Fund 100 - General Totals ($9,702,300.00)($6,528.00)($9,708,828.00)($1,140,568.67)$0.00 ($9,576,979.00)($131,849.00)($9,452,440.06)
Fund 235 - Human Services
EXPENSE
Department 00 - General Fund .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 740.09 (740.09)+++1,516.51
Department 47 - Behavioral Health & Community 219,012.00 32,267.00 251,279.00 34,178.69 .00 267,722.95 (16,443.95)107 227,289.37
Department 48 - Community Support Program (CSP)1,671.00 .00 1,671.00 .00 .00 330.70 1,340.30 20 .00
Department 51 - Regional Crisis Initiative 3,850.00 .00 3,850.00 .00 .00 .00 3,850.00 0 .00
Department 52 - AMSO 581,919.00 .00 581,919.00 67,908.88 .00 569,832.64 12,086.36 98 581,671.15
Department 53 - Family Services 1,530,919.00 .00 1,530,919.00 59,158.69 .00 513,937.66 1,016,981.34 34 548,899.40
Department 54 - Economic Support 395,440.00 .00 395,440.00 43,318.35 .00 354,270.67 41,169.33 90 386,387.83
Run by Paige Terry on 12/29/2022 08:17:42 AM Page 1 of 2
Personnel Financial Through December 31, 2022
Through 12/31/22
Prior Fiscal Year Activity Included
Summary Listing
Adopted Budget Amended Current Month YTD YTD Budget - YTD % Used/
Organization Budget Amendments Budget Transactions Encumbrances Transactions Transactions Rec'd Prior Year YTD
Fund 235 - Human Services
EXPENSE
Department 55 - Aging and Disabilities 151,883.00 24,561.00 176,444.00 42,574.81 .00 306,653.07 (130,209.07)174 269,454.67
Department 56 - GWAAR 277,326.00 .00 277,326.00 27,810.39 .00 240,439.40 36,886.60 87 285,560.57
Department 58 - ADRC-Bayfield Co 114,659.00 .00 114,659.00 10,643.85 .00 109,079.06 5,579.94 95 119,590.56
Department 59 - ADRC-North 115,346.00 .00 115,346.00 12,321.94 .00 114,528.84 817.16 99 117,784.97
EXPENSE TOTALS $3,392,025.00 $56,828.00 $3,448,853.00 $297,915.60 $0.00 $2,477,535.08 $971,317.92 72%$2,538,155.03
Fund 235 - Human Services Totals
EXPENSE TOTALS 3,392,025.00 56,828.00 3,448,853.00 297,915.60 .00 2,477,535.08 971,317.92 72%2,538,155.03
Fund 235 - Human Services Totals ($3,392,025.00)($56,828.00)($3,448,853.00)($297,915.60)$0.00 ($2,477,535.08)($971,317.92)($2,538,155.03)
Fund 276 - American Rescue Plan 2021 Grant
EXPENSE
Department 20 - Health 53,645.00 (41,000.00)12,645.00 .00 .00 2,671.87 9,973.13 21 26,351.14
Department 56 - GWAAR 90,000.00 .00 90,000.00 6,813.97 .00 58,458.37 31,541.63 65 .00
EXPENSE TOTALS $143,645.00 ($41,000.00)$102,645.00 $6,813.97 $0.00 $61,130.24 $41,514.76 60%$26,351.14
Fund 276 - American Rescue Plan 2021 Grant Totals
EXPENSE TOTALS 143,645.00 (41,000.00)102,645.00 6,813.97 .00 61,130.24 41,514.76 60%26,351.14
Fund 276 - American Rescue Plan 2021 Grant Totals ($143,645.00)$41,000.00 ($102,645.00)($6,813.97)$0.00 ($61,130.24)($41,514.76)($26,351.14)
Fund 710 - Highway
EXPENSE
Department 71 - Highway Dept 2,312,561.00 .00 2,312,561.00 248,286.76 .00 2,243,388.40 69,172.60 97 1,960,351.24
EXPENSE TOTALS $2,312,561.00 $0.00 $2,312,561.00 $248,286.76 $0.00 $2,243,388.40 $69,172.60 97%$1,960,351.24
Fund 710 - Highway Totals
EXPENSE TOTALS 2,312,561.00 .00 2,312,561.00 248,286.76 .00 2,243,388.40 69,172.60 97%1,960,351.24
Fund 710 - Highway Totals ($2,312,561.00)$0.00 ($2,312,561.00)($248,286.76)$0.00 ($2,243,388.40)($69,172.60)($1,960,351.24)
Grand Totals
EXPENSE TOTALS 15,550,531.00 22,356.00 15,572,887.00 1,693,585.00 .00 14,359,032.72 1,213,854.28 92%13,977,297.47
Grand Totals ($15,550,531.00)($22,356.00)($15,572,887.00)($1,693,585.00)$0.00 ($14,359,032.72)($1,213,854.28)($13,977,297.47)
Run by Paige Terry on 12/29/2022 08:17:42 AM Page 2 of 2
Personnel Financial Through December 31, 2022
Through 12/31/22
Prior Fiscal Year Activity Included
Summary Listing
Human Resources Report / Kris Kavajecz
As of December 29, 2022
ACTIVITY YEAR-TO-DATE
Retirements 0 4
Worker’s Comp Claims 4 29
Resignations 1 30
Terminations 0 1
Other 0 1
HIRES YEAR-TO-DATE
Full-Time 1 33
Part-Time 0 19
Temporary/Seasonal 0 29
Interviews 9 166
Exit Interviews 1 21
Details:
Retirement: None
Resignations: Heather Doubek-Zoning Office Clerk
Other: None
Hires: Emma Grove-Deputy Register in Probate/Clerk of Court
Other Activities:
• Participated in a couple of Website Re-design meetings.
• Multiple negotiation sessions and communications with WPPA. Updated the WPPA
Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Worked with a couple of Department Heads on performance and/or communication
situations.
• Conducted a Performance Evaluation System Training for Supervisory Staff.
• Conducted a group orientation session for new employees. The session included an
overview of County Operations/Departments, History of Bayfield County, Budget Overview,
and Policy Review.
• Met with presenters for the upcoming In-Service Training Day to ensure that technology and
space needs are met. Prepared materials and schedule for the Training Day.
• Participated in a meeting with Sheriff, Chief Deputy and CCOs regarding scheduling and
other concerns in the Dispatch Center.
• Assisted with Holiday Luncheon organization.
• Met with representatives from UWS to discuss more collaboration for graduating students.
• We extended temporary employment and/or extended the amount of hours allowed for a
couple of PT employees.
• Participated in the selection process for Sheriff’s Office Patrol Sergeant
• There are three employees out on extended leaves of absence and couple of others on
short-term leaves. Coordinating benefits information with these employees and payroll.
• Followed up with 15 previous employees to collect necessary forms related to the new HRA
vendor.
• Preparing for new staff that are starting after the first of the year.
• Compiling data and wrapping up year-end reports.