HR report: Pueblo West turnover at 11%; safety program yields 10% insurance discount

PUEBLO WEST, Colo. — Human resources and safety staff briefed the board on turnover, injuries and insurance on Aug. 13, reporting that turnover this year stood at about 11 percent and that the district earned a 10 percent insurance discount after meeting training and safety requirements.

Jessica Pankey, human resources director, told the board that, year to date, the district had 14 separations and nine terminations; she said 2024 turnover had remained under a 15 percent goal. Pankey also described department‑level turnover and said a training and development position remains vacant and is being reposted.

Steve McDowell, safety and risk manager, gave a safety update: he reported 15 injuries, 18 near misses, 12 vehicle accidents or damages and seven property damages year to date. McDowell said the district received a 10 percent insurance discount after achieving full completion of required safety trainings and programs.

Why it matters: Turnover affects operational continuity and recruitment costs. Injuries and vehicle/property incidents influence workers’ compensation experience modifiers and insurance costs; McDowell said the district is aiming to lower its EMOD and that his goal is to reduce claims and save on premiums.

Board questions and follow up: Directors asked about long‑term workers’ compensation cases and unemployment claims. McDowell said there were no active work‑comp cases older than a year and that the district attempts to provide light‑duty work to reduce time off. Pankey said nine of the separations were terminations; the remaining departures included resignations and retirements.

Outcomes: No formal board action was requested; staff will continue monitoring turnover and safety metrics and pursue risk‑reduction measures to lower insurance costs.