The Crookston City Council convened on December 30, 2024, to discuss significant changes to the bereavement policy for the fire department. The proposed amendment aims to enhance employee support during times of loss by allowing staff to take bereavement leave without the requirement to use sick time.

City officials highlighted that the current policy mandates employees to utilize sick leave for bereavement, which has been a point of contention. The proposed change would maintain the existing two paid bereavement days but remove the stipulation that employees must draw from their sick leave. This adjustment aligns with practices observed in many other municipalities and businesses, promoting a more compassionate approach to employee bereavement.

The council discussed the implications of this change, emphasizing its potential to foster goodwill among staff. One council member expressed concerns about bypassing traditional negotiation processes with the union, suggesting that such changes should be part of collective bargaining discussions. However, proponents of the amendment argued that the minimal budget impact and the positive effect on employee morale justified the immediate change.

The council ultimately voted in favor of the amendment, with all members present supporting the motion. This decision marks a step towards improving employee welfare within the city’s fire department, with further discussions anticipated regarding the AFSCME contract renewal next year.