Board adopts new 2026 employee handbook; council to review benefits section

The Board of Public Works and Safety voted on March 16 to adopt a new City of Madison employee handbook intended to replace the 2008 manual and reflect current federal and state workplace rules.

Presenter Jenna summarized a two-year revision process that included contracting with HR Focus and reviewing multiple drafts with department heads and council member Josh Wilbur. Key changes included clarifications on attendance, timekeeping, expanded military leave language, a transition from a parental-leave label to a broader paid personal leave for significant medical situations, and new separation/discipline procedures for HR staff to apply consistently.

Jenna said the handbook was reorganized to explain eligibility and administration of core benefits, and that the benefits portion will require actions by the common council (the board adopted the handbook as the administrative body for policies but noted benefits remain a fiscal/council decision). The resolution identifies the handbook will be effective on the later of April 7, 2026, or when the common council adopts benefit provisions.

Board members praised the work and emphasized the goal of keeping the handbook a 'living document' that is periodically reviewed. The motion to adopt Resolution 2026-6B carried on a voice vote; staff said they will present the benefits sections to common council for the fiscal approvals needed to make those items effective.