Polk County staff seek reclassification for environmental health specialist; estimated $5,200 annual impact

Mr. Hawkins, representing Polk County community development, asked the Board of Commissioners on Jan. 7 to reclassify Justine Bova from Environmental Health Specialist 1 to Environmental Health Specialist 2 effective Jan. 1, citing that Bova has assumed higher-level duties in food safety and drinking water programs.

Hawkins said the reclassification was "probably long overdue" and requested the change take effect Jan. 1. He provided a fiscal-impact estimate of approximately $5,200 for a full 12 months, with PERS contributions included.

Commissioners expressed support and confirmed no executive session was required for the personnel matter. No formal vote on the reclassification was recorded in the transcript during the Jan. 7 meeting; Hawkins' request will proceed through the county's personnel and budgeting procedures as needed.

Context and next steps: The transcript shows the request was presented to the board during the meeting and commissioners indicated consensus that no executive session was necessary. The record does not include a board motion or final approval during this meeting; the item may appear on a future agenda or be handled administratively depending on county procedures.