Commission changes travel reimbursement to per-trip and narrows hiring-freeze approvals

Summary

The commission amended county policy to allow travel reimbursements per travel occurrence rather than limiting reimbursements to one voucher per month; it also revised the hiring-freeze policy so the county administrator and HR may fill vacant positions without returning to the commission unless new headcount is requested.

The Grand Forks County Commission approved two administrative policy changes intended to streamline county operations.

First, the commission amended the county travel reimbursement policy to permit reimbursement per travel occurrence rather than limiting reimbursement to one voucher per month. County staff said the prior limit reflected a payroll officer’s preference rather than a legal requirement; the change passed after review by county staff.

Second, the commission revised the county’s hiring-freeze policy. Under the amended policy, additional headcount (new positions) still requires commission approval, but ordinary refilling of vacant positions will be handled by the county administrator in consultation with human resources and the requesting department head. The county administrator said the approach will include review for possible savings through attrition and will apply consistent scrutiny given recent budget reductions.

Both policy changes were approved by unanimous vote.