Commissioners Approve K-9 Vehicle Replacement, Sick Leave Buyback Policy for Sheriff’s Personnel

The Board of Commissioners approved two key measures for county law enforcement, authorizing the replacement of a patrol vehicle lost to recent floodwaters and adopting a policy change aimed at stabilizing shift staffing.

Sheriff Zac Jones presented quotes to replace a totaled K-9 patrol unit, recommending the purchase of a 2027 Dodge Durango from Jeff Reidman for just over $41,000. Jones explained that the Durango platform provides better accessibility for the department’s working dog compared to standard trucks. The purchase, which saved roughly $4,000 over an out-of-area stock option, will be fully funded by the insurance settlement payout alongside existing community K-9 donations, requiring no additional local tax dollars. The board approved the replacement 3–0.

In a related personnel action, commissioners approved an amendment to the employee handbook governing the Sheriff’s Department, Jail, 911 Communications, and Community Corrections. Effective November 1, 2026, full-time personnel across 24-hour operations and the road division will be eligible to receive year-end payment for unused sick leave accrued over the previous 12 months.

Commissioner Dale Strong addressed the rationale behind the policy shift, explaining that the county faces severe absenteeism each year toward late autumn as employees scramble to burn remaining sick time that cannot carry over. Strong noted that when personnel stay home to use up those days, it triggers costly mandatory overtime shifts to maintain required coverage. By allowing employees to cash out unused days at year’s end, the county aims to keep staff on the job and lower overall overtime expenses. The handbook amendment passed unanimously.