Klamath County officials are grappling with staffing challenges in critical programs, as highlighted during the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on November 26, 2024. A key discussion centered on the urgent need to address staffing shortages in the Klamath County Recovery (KCR) program, which generated $1 million in revenue last fiscal year but is now at risk due to an inability to recruit sufficient personnel.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the current hiring freeze and its impact on the KCR program and juvenile services. The program director emphasized that administrative staff are working excessive hours—between 60 to 70 hours a week—to manage the workload, yet they are unable to keep up with client demands. The director urged the commissioners to resolve the staffing issue promptly to ensure the program's continued success.

Commissioner De Groot acknowledged the complexities surrounding the personnel spreadsheet, which outlines the number of authorized positions. Discrepancies between the spreadsheets have hindered recruitment efforts, with the director noting that only 22 out of 28 authorized positions are currently filled. This misalignment has prevented the posting of new positions, further exacerbating staffing shortages.

The discussion also touched on the potential benefits of hiring more full-time staff instead of relying on part-time employees, who often call in sick or fail to show up. The director argued that a stable workforce is essential for the program's efficiency and effectiveness. However, the need for a comprehensive review of the personnel spreadsheet and budget allocations was emphasized, as any adjustments require the entire board's approval.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of addressing these staffing issues was clear. The commissioners recognized the importance of resolving the discrepancies and moving forward with recruitment to ensure the KCR program can continue to serve the community effectively. The next steps will involve a thorough review of the personnel needs and budgetary implications to support the program's sustainability.