Clay County approves two registered nurses for withdrawal management facility with backfill authority

Clay County commissioners voted Dec. 30 to approve hiring two registered nurses for the county’s withdrawal management (detox) facility and granted authority to backfill positions if needed. The request came from staff who said the positions were already budgeted for 2026 and that additional RNs would help avoid days when a nurse absence would force the facility to forgo revenue.

Why it matters: The county operates a withdrawal management program whose reimbursement and operations require a nurse on duty. Commissioners said they support staffing stability but pressed staff about internal LPNs pursuing RN licensure and the potential effect on those employees’ advancement if outside hires fill budgeted RN slots.

What was said: Presenter (speaker 6) told the board, "You have to have nurses, to be able to, charge for withdrawal management," explaining that without an RN on duty the facility could lose daily revenue. Board members asked whether LPNs would qualify and whether internal candidates close to passing RN boards could be given time to advance; staff said some internal LPNs are completing boards and that backfill authority would help move variable‑hour LPNs into full‑time roles when appropriate.

Outcome: Commissioner Evers moved, and Commissioner Bair seconded, to approve hiring the two RNs with backfill authority. The motion passed by voice vote. Commissioners requested staff follow up on timing for internal candidates and to consider internal advancement where feasible.

Next steps: Human resources and facility management will proceed with hires under the approved budget and report back to the board if internal candidates become available or if further policy decisions about internal promotions are needed.