The Rock County Board Meeting held on June 26, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding staffing policies and operational challenges at Rock Haven, the county's nursing home. With a focus on improving the facility's management and addressing the nursing shortage, board members discussed the implications of current employment practices and the need for strategic changes.

One of the primary issues raised was the county's policy regarding part-time employees, particularly the practice of offering time-and-a-half pay for extra shifts. A long-time nurse with over 30 years of experience expressed concerns that this policy could lead to budgetary issues and create tension between full-time and part-time staff. The speaker emphasized that part-time employees could earn more than their full-time counterparts, which undermines the incentive to work full-time and could lead to staffing instability.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of these staffing challenges. The nursing shortage is a pressing issue, and the current hiring process at Rock Haven has been criticized for being slow and inefficient. The nursing home administrator, Natalie, explained that the hiring timeline can vary significantly, sometimes taking up to 30 days or more due to reference checks and pre-employment requirements. This delay can result in losing potential candidates to other employers, further exacerbating staffing shortages.

Board members acknowledged the need for improvements in human resources and marketing strategies to attract and retain qualified nursing staff. The idea of creating a positive work environment where nurses feel appreciated was emphasized as a key factor in recruitment. The hope is that by enhancing the hiring process and improving workplace culture, Rock Haven could become a model facility in Wisconsin.

Additionally, the financial aspects of operating Rock Haven were discussed. The facility's budget for the year was set at $19 million, serving approximately 90 residents, which translates to a cost of over $190,000 per resident annually. Board members requested comparative data on national averages for similar facilities to better understand the financial landscape and identify areas for improvement.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the challenges ahead but also a commitment to making necessary changes. The board expressed optimism that with focused efforts on staffing and operational efficiency, Rock Haven could enhance its reputation and service delivery, ultimately benefiting both residents and the community at large.