Marathon County Human Resources told the committee the department is actively recruiting for a new HR manager and managing 38 vacancies across county departments, with 20 open recruitments. Of the 38 vacancies, four have selected candidates expected to start Jan. 5.

HR reported hiring 38 employees this quarter, 22 of whom are regular hires and 16 seasonal or casual. The department is in the middle of the annual performance appraisal cycle and planning an all-staff training day for January. HR staff also noted work on an RFP for a new insurance consulting broker.

Staff updated the committee on a separate RFP for health-care consulting that yielded nine initial respondents; one did not meet criteria and eight were scored on experience, personnel, responsiveness, methodology and cost. Three finalists emerged and interviews have begun; staff expect to select a consultant next week and then work with the chosen firm on implementation timing, recognizing a required 60-day notice to the incumbent.

Supervisor Lemmer asked whether the incumbent was excluded; staff confirmed the incumbent was welcome to submit a proposal and would be evaluated with the other respondents.