The Douglas County Board of Commissioners will offer pandemic relief and incentives to employees who have been working around the clock since the COVID-19 pandemic began. At the August 31, 2021 board meeting, the commissioners approved two separate measures that 1) provides a one-time “Hazard Pay” to employees who continue to serve the public during the pandemic, and 2) gives a one-time monetary incentive for getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
County Chairwoman Dr. Romona Jackson Jones says, the employees deserve the pay and the incentive, “We have had a number of positive cases in our various County departments, and despite the setbacks and at times uncomfortable situations, these employees have continued to come back to serve the people of this great County. This is our way of showing them our gratitude.”
Per County policy, “Hazard Pay” is reserved for employees who perform hazardous duties or work that involves physical hardships or discomfort on a regular basis. Full-time County employees will receive $1000 in hazard pay, and part-time employees will receive $500 in hazard pay.
Commissioners are also hoping to encourage more County employees to get the Covid-19 vaccine with an incentive initiative. Employees who show proof of their full vaccination status by November 1, 2021, are eligible to receive a one-time $250 gift card. As of August 31, 2021, 44% of Douglas County residents have had one dose and 38% are fully vaccinated.
Both the hazard pay supplement and the vaccine incentive are being funded by Douglas County’s allotment of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.