Human Services reports 18 vacancies and projects a year-end surplus; staff flag mileage and grant timing

Human Services staff reported current workforce and financial metrics to the board: as of the morning of the meeting, the department had 18 open positions (primarily in child welfare and behavioral health), and the fiscal report through July projected about a $1,000,000 surplus at the end of the year. "As of this morning...We have 18 positions open that is up from where we have been," the presenter said (Department presenter, Speaker 2). Janet Roloff (Speaker 7) told members the July report shows the department is projecting a roughly $1,000,000 surplus at year end while flagging that mileage and gas reimbursements are running higher than anticipated.

Staff cautioned that several grant revenue lines close at the end of September and that month-end reporting is expected to generate a spike in revenues, which could alter the surplus projection. Members asked about specific line items such as computer software, medical supplies and motor fuel; staff explained some increases (software/HMIS, motor fuel interfund arrangements) and said they would monitor and return with any necessary budget adjustments.