The Rock County Board Meeting held on June 26, 2025, addressed several key topics, with a notable focus on staff recruitment and retention strategies.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding the effectiveness of hiring bonuses as a tool for attracting and retaining employees. A board member raised the question of whether hiring bonuses could be beneficial in addressing staffing shortages. They suggested that such bonuses might incentivize new hires to join the county workforce, potentially offsetting costs associated with contracting staff.

In response, it was clarified that Rock County currently has a structured bonus system in place. This includes a referral bonus, a new hire bonus, and a retention bonus, which were implemented approximately four to five years ago through a formal resolution. New hires receive $500 upon starting, an additional $500 after six months, and a further $1,000 after one year of employment. Furthermore, current employees who refer new hires for nursing positions are also eligible for these bonuses.

The discussion highlighted the county's ongoing efforts to enhance its recruitment strategies and ensure a stable workforce. The board's consideration of hiring bonuses reflects a proactive approach to addressing staffing challenges within Rock County.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of effective recruitment and retention practices as the county continues to navigate workforce needs. Further evaluations of these strategies may be anticipated in future meetings as the board seeks to optimize its staffing solutions.