Committee delays decision on bringing mowing in‑house pending union grievance review

Committee members debated whether to bring grounds mowing in‑house after staff suggested county crews could perform grounds work currently contracted to outside contractors. Several members noted the county workers' union filed a grievance asserting mowing falls within county job descriptions; the committee did not have clear documentation of the grievance outcome and agreed to obtain that record before making a decision.

Members cited workers' compensation and liability concerns, noting county highway crews regularly mow ditches and that risks exist regardless of whether county staff or contractors perform the work. One member said bringing mowing back in‑house would improve attention to detail—trimming bushes, picking up litter and filling low spots—while others warned unresolved grievance or contract obligations could expose the county to legal or financial risk. The committee deferred a vote pending review of the grievance record and further information about staffing and liability.