Pickens Commissioners approve a new sick leave policy
Business, Community September 17, 2021
PICKENS, Ga.— The Pickens County Board of Commissioners met Sept. 16 to discuss a new sick leave policy and voice formal support for a new scenic byway.
Chairman Kris Stancil first asked the board to consider creating a “sick bank” policy during the first Board of Commissioners September meeting. During the second September meeting, the completed policy was approved unanimously by the board. The shared leave policy will allow employees to opt-in with an initial contribution of at least 4 hours. Afterwards, workers are able to donate up to 80 hours a year. Only employees dealing with a serious illness (as defined by the FMLA), who have already expended all personal sick leave and vacation time, will be allowed to withdraw from the sick bank. However, employees will only be able to withdraw a maximum of 12 weeks worth of leave.
“This gives us an opportunity to be able to ensure that we have a job for them to come back to,” Stancil said. Paula Peace, who was present at the meeting, drafted the policy. When asked if the policy runs smoothly elsewhere, Peace assured the board she has heard no negative feedback from neighboring counties.
The proposed route for the new Amicalola Falls Scenic Byway.
The Board of Commissioners also discussed a new scenic byway being proposed by the state. The proposed Amicalola Falls Scenic Byway would stretch from Ellijay, Ga to Dawsonville, Ga, with portions entering Jasper and Talking Rock. The board granted unanimous approval for the byway, meaning the state can continue their application process. Although Pickens County takes on no new responsibilities with the byway, Stancil did say the county might assist with signage.
At the end of the meeting, Charlene Bunch presented a financial status update for the month of August. Stancil noted that almost every county department is significantly under budget for the fiscal year: “I just want to brag on all the departments.”
The Pickens Report August 2020
Community September 18, 2020
The month of September is National Preparedness Month. Pickens County Emergency Management encourages all citizens to have an emergency plan for your home. Make sure that everyone who lives in your home knows the plan. Have a small gathering of necessities on hand always like medications, first aid kit, small tool kit, flashlight, batteries, food, and bottled water.
All citizens are encouraged to sign up for free Code Red Weather Warnings at pickenscountyga.gov and follow Pickens Emergency Management Homeland Security Agency on Facebook for updates. Also, the annual flu shot clinic for Pickens County residents 18 and up will be on Monday, September 28th 9am until 2pm at Mt. Zion Baptist Church.
During the month of August, the 911 Operations Center received 1,801 total calls, 785 were medical responses or fire related. The Water Department installed 12 new meters. The Department of Planning and Development issued 78 new building permits. The Pickens Animal Shelter brought in 45 new animals, and 46 went out through various forms of adoption. Animal control responded to four cases. Public Works tar and graveled Free Hope Road, Hobson Road, and Young Loop. Subcontractor crews will begin resurfacing 28 roads across the county in the next few weeks. PCRD basketball registration is now open until October 11th. Instructional league (4-6 years old) costs $35, all other leagues (7-8 years old and above) costs $75. Late registration will be available October 12-14 for a $10 late fee.
The Pickens County government departments continue to stay busy working for the citizens of Pickens County. The Pickens County Board of Commissioners continue to do a great job of leading these efforts. As work progresses, and projects continue, I will do my best to keep you informed of these developments.
Until the next time, stay safe, and shop local!
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