Klamath County considers limited PTO cash-out for capped employees

During the June 2 administrative meeting, a Human Resources representative presented a discussion proposal to allow employees who have reached their PTO cap to request a cash-out of between 40 and 80 hours at 100% at the last pay period of the fiscal year provided they have used at least 40 hours that year. The presenter contrasted this with the county's standing payout language, which currently allows a 40-hour payout at 80% and noted that one union group (737) has different language that allows an 80-hour payout regardless of capped status.

The HR representative said the proposal is meant as a modest courtesy for employees who have taken vacation but still hit a cap; staff reported there are 13 employees currently capped out. Commissioners pressed for the rationale behind the current 80% payout and expressed concern about changing policy without input from affected employees or bargaining units. One commissioner said they want those employees or their representatives to come to a meeting to explain why a change is needed before the board considers a policy change; another emphasized encouraging employees to take leave rather than accumulate it.

No formal action was taken; staff presented the item for discussion and commissioners asked for follow-up that would include input from affected employees or bargaining representatives and possible case-by-case exceptions.