| FUND: GENERAL |
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES |
Karen Galbraith, Human Resources Director
The Human Resources Department administers the County’s policies in the areas of recruitment and selection, salary administration, insurance and fringe benefits, workers compensation, equal employment/affirmative action, personnel records and transactions, employee safety and health, labor contract negotiations, grievance processing, leave programs, orientation and development, training and other related employee and labor relations matters.
Human Resources staff post all job openings, advertise when appropriate, administer the employment application and related testing process, screen all eligible applicants and assist management staff in conducting interviews and determining which applicant to hire in accordance with all existing federal and state laws governing the employment process.
Human Resources staff serve as consultants to managers and supervisors in handling corrective action, staff development, and employee relations issues on a daily basis. Human Resources strives to encourage positive employee relations and open communication.
In addition, Human Resources staff advises the County Executive and the Finance/Human Resources Committee of the County Board of Supervisors concerning all matters regarding personnel and/or labor relations
The department has settled two labor unit contracts with insurance changes on a voluntary basis in 2003, and continues to bargain with one remaining unit that does not have these changes. Two contracts expired on June 30, 2003 and negotiations will be conducted in accordance with the parameters set by the County.
The Human Resources Policy manual is being updated with several revisions and modifications that need to go through the approval process. Once approved, employees will receive the updated policies.
Human Resources has developed a Supervisors’ Website to provide guidance, forms, and information to managers and supervisors. The site includes an “Ask H.R.” section where questions can be submitted. The website will be made available by the end of 2003.
The Department continues to strive to reduce Workers’ Compensation injuries by raising safety awareness throughout the County. Efforts include an active and responsive employee safety committee.
Family Medical Leave training was developed in Human Resources and is being conducted throughout the County to ensure compliance with State and Federal laws
 | Reach voluntary settlements in accordance with the parameters set by the
County with the 3 labor units whose contracts have not been settled. |
| Continue to coordinate the review of all employee safety policies and
programs in the County. Provide necessary safety training. |
| Increase diversity efforts throughout the County by developing creative
recruitment strategies to attract a diverse workforce and by conducting
diversity training with employees. |
| Implement a Human Resources Information System to allow for better tracking and reporting of personnel information. |
