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County goals to reduce corrections vacancies by 10 before November; new recruitment push includes radio and local events

5483776 · July 14, 2025

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Summary

Human-resources staff presented a recruitment plan for the corrections department, aiming to reduce vacancies by 10 by Nov. 1 through radio ads, social-media buys, community events and job fairs; vacancy count has fallen from a March peak of 39 to 34 and 11 hires have been recorded so far this year.

The Merrimack County Board of Commissioners received an update on corrections recruitment from Human Resources Director Wendy Heath and staff. The county set a goal of reducing corrections vacancies by 10 positions by Nov. 1 and outlined a multi-pronged outreach strategy that includes a radio ad produced in-house, increased social-media advertising via an agency, newspaper advertising, presence at community events such as Old Home Day and National Night Out, use of QR codes on vehicle magnets to track responses, and a possible on-site job fair.

Why it matters: Corrections vacancies affect staffing levels at the county facility and the department’s ability to meet operational needs; reducing vacancies is intended to stabilize staffing and preserve service levels.

Staff said the vacancy count peaked at 39 in March and is currently at 34. So far this year the county has recorded 11 new hires in the corrections department. Staff said summer is typically a slower application season but noted some manufacturers’ closings can push applicants toward county employment. The county previously used sign-on and referral bonuses funded with federal ARPA/other one-time funds and said those incentives are options to employ again.

The board and staff discussed possible incentives for current officers to refer candidates and the value of video-based social marketing to reach younger applicants. No formal funding decision was made at the meeting; staff requested the board’s support for the recruitment campaign and said it will report back on progress.