Commissioners reject proposed county building-closure PTO reimbursement policy after debate

Lapeer County commissioners voted down a proposed building-closure policy that would have returned paid time off for employees if county buildings were closed for four hours or more.

County administration presented the policy as a proactive measure after a December closure that raised questions about employees’ PTO when the county shut down for severe weather. County administrator Moses told the board the policy would return PTO only when the building was closed at least four hours and would not apply to early closings or late openings.

Commissioners debated the proposal’s fairness and wider precedent for employees with preapproved PTO. One commissioner said granting PTO back for closures “wouldn't fly in business” and warned the policy could become a recurring obligation. Administration and union representatives had signaled that grievances could favor employees seeking PTO restoration for full-day closures.

The board conducted a roll-call vote after discussion and the policy failed to pass. Administration said it will revise its approach and continue discussions to find other options.

Next steps: Administration will return to the board with alternative proposals and any further legal or union guidance.