Denton County approves Policy 5.7 on transition-period pay and exit-notification for employees of elected officials

The Denton County Commissioners Court voted March 24 to approve Policy 5.7, which establishes rules for the transition period for employees who work for elected officials.

Human Resources staff (Gustavo Hernandez) told the court that the county needs clearer guidance on how the treasurer’s office should process pay-outs for employees leaving elected officials’ offices and suggested setting a timeframe for employees to indicate whether they will seek reemployment. Hernandez explained that the county’s current practice allows up to 160 hours to be paid out in some cases and that clarification was needed so payroll can be processed correctly. He said, “I suggest to give them a time frame so they can make a decision whether or not they are gonna seek employment in a different office…That way, the treasury’s office will know how to pay them out.” (Gustavo Hernandez)

Commissioners discussed making notification part of the exit interview; the judge said the matter could be addressed administratively as needed. The court approved Policy 5.7 by voice vote (motion by the chair; second by Commissioner Mitchell), with the motion carrying unanimously.

The court did not specify an exact deadline in the adopted motion; HR indicated the exit interview process will capture whether an employee plans to seek other county employment, and payroll processing details will be coordinated with the treasurer’s office.