In a pivotal meeting held on January 9, 2025, Owen County Commissioners addressed a long-standing gap in human resources support that has left county employees vulnerable for years. The discussion centered around the urgent need to appoint a dedicated human resources administrator, a position that has been unfilled for over six years, leading to significant challenges for department heads and employees alike.

As the meeting unfolded, one commissioner emphasized the critical nature of this role, stating, “We have had no human resource officer here in this county to support our employees or our department heads.” This lack of support has forced department heads to seek legal guidance from the county attorney, a situation deemed inappropriate and unsustainable. The commissioners acknowledged that the absence of a dedicated HR professional has not only hindered operations but also posed potential legal risks for the county.

The conversation highlighted the financial hurdles that have historically obstructed the hiring process. “Funding such an entity” was identified as a major concern, with commissioners noting that previous attempts to secure resources for this position had fallen short. However, the urgency of the situation was clear, with one commissioner warning that the lack of HR support could cost the county “hundreds of thousands of dollars” in potential legal liabilities.

In a move towards resolution, the commissioners unanimously voted to proceed with the hiring process and to present the proposal to the county council. They emphasized the importance of collaboration with the council, stating, “It affects every county employee in Owen County.” The commissioners plan to discuss the job description and salary at the upcoming council meeting, aiming to establish a clear path forward for this essential role.

As the meeting concluded, there was a palpable sense of determination among the commissioners to rectify the oversight and ensure that Owen County employees receive the support they need. The commitment to appoint a human resources administrator marks a significant step towards enhancing the county's operational integrity and safeguarding its workforce.