Commissioners approve limited hybrid remote‑work exception for deputy district attorney candidate amid recruitment challenges

County staff brought a request to allow a hybrid remote‑work arrangement for a deputy district attorney candidate as a recruitment tool. Staff described the position as full time but difficult to fill and said prior, experienced deputies had worked remotely in certain cases using the county’s online case management system.

Board members debated whether approving a special exception would create precedent and asked whether the arrangement should be handled by a letter of exception on file or through a revised policy. Staff recommended a limited, documented exception for this candidate while continuing to advertise for a permanent on‑site hire.

Several commissioners and the county administrator expressed support for a narrowly framed exception given the candidate’s prior experience and willingness to be in the county for court and hearings as needed. The board voted to authorize the hybrid remote‑work arrangement for the deputy district attorney in this specific case, with an understanding the attorney must attend in person for court, grand jury and other onsite duties and that staff will continue recruitment efforts for an on‑site candidate.

The motion passed by voice vote; staff will craft the exception and return any broader policy proposals to the board for consideration.