MINUTES OF THE INFORMAL MEETING OF THE JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS:
JULY 9, 2009
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Human Resources Administrator Lora Shramek: Hiring Policy and Procedure..................... 1
Reports and Inquiries from The Board of Supervisors.......................................................... 2
Reports and Inquiries from Executive Assistant Andy Johnson............................................ 2
Chairperson Neuzil called the Johnson County Board of Supervisors to order in the Johnson County Administration Building at 6:32 p.m. Members present were: Pat Harney, Larry Meyers, Terrence Neuzil, Sally Stutsman, and Rod Sullivan.
Shramek said the Board asked her to draft a hiring policy so that a written standard exists and all department heads are aware that employment laws cover all positions, regardless of their status; with the exception of elected officials and their appointed deputies. The draft hiring policy and procedure that was in the Board was presented at the Department Head meeting on June 16, 2009 and all changes have been incorporated. Shramek recommended that the Board place the hiring policy and procedure on the agenda for formal approval next week.
Stutsman said Sharmek's proposal mentions regular positions. She asked what the word “regular” means. Shramek said two rounds of interviews are recommended for regular positions, four months or longer, as opposed to temporary positions. Stutsman asked if that can be clarified in the document. Shramek replied yes. Stutsman asked who conducts reference checks. Shramek replied that Human Resources generally, although hiring managers occasionally conduct their own checks. Shramek said Human Resources helps hiring managers with the questions that are asked. She asked if she should be more specific in the document. Stutsman stated that she would like it made very clear. Shramek stated she would make those changes.
Sullivan said it is important for the Board to note there are many things and eventualities that can happen that cannot all be covered in written policy. Shramek agreed. Sullivan said the policy and procedures manual is better than not having anything to refer to, but everyone is still expected to follow every applicable law. Shramek agreed and indicated common sense should also be followed. Stutsman agreed. Neuzil agreed and said he appreciates the fact that there will be an actual policy written down for instances when there are concerns or issues from other departments. He asked if other department personnel have seen this version and if it can be forwarded to other elected officials and department heads. Shramek replied that she sent it to everyone. Neuzil asked Shramek to send an updated version to everyone. Sullivan asked who will receive the policy and procedures. Shramek replied that it will be distributed to all supervisory personnel, although there is no supervisory handbook or manual. It will not be included in the Employee Handbook, because it only pertains to management. Sullivan clarified that management personnel will get at least one written copy. Shramek replied yes and stated it will also be included in the orientation packets of new hires. Harney said the policy provides a good guide for everyone to ensure equal opportunity for applying for jobs and for recognizing that everyone is eligible.
Stutsman attended the Department of Human Services public hearing in Des Moines on July 1, 2009, a Finance Committee meeting July 9, 2009, and the Space Needs Committee meeting. She also met with RCND Local Foods Project Manager Jason Grimm.
Harney attended Planning Zoning Site Visits, the Iowa City Chamber Round Table, liaison meetings with Ambulance Director Steve Spenler and Human Resources Director Lora Shramek, and site visits with Social Services Coordinator Amy Correia at 4C’s, Home Ties, and the Crisis Center.
Sullivan said the 2nd Annual Tiffin Fest is this weekend.
Neuzil toured the Crisis Center. He mentioned the Thanksgiving in July event is being planned and stated that their website is thanksgivinginjuly.org. He and Senator Grassley met with the Area Chamber of Commerce. He was a guest on KCJJ for a community show. Neuzil said his next Listening Post is scheduled for July 10, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. at John’s Ice Cream in Tiffin. Another Listening Post is scheduled for July 16, 2009 at Bruegger’s in Coralville at 7:30 a.m.
Executive Assistant Andy Johnson said the Board has a Strategic Planning Session scheduled for July 15, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. The next Board Meeting is scheduled for July 16, 2009 at 9:00 a.m.
Adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
By Nancy Tomkovicz, Recording Secretary