Summary
A proposed peer support coordinator position for county workers — especially first responders — went unfunded in last year's budget despite a state study showing 911 dispatchers, police, EMS, and fire personnel face high rates of depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. Committee members want to educate the legislature before budget season so the roughly $124,000-a-year position isn't cut again.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 28, 2026.
Impact analysis
The position would cost about $124,000 a year ongoing — $85,571 salary plus roughly $38,000 in fringe.
First responders, dispatchers, caseworkers, and all county employees exposed to trauma and burnout would gain confidential peer support.
Without the position, employees dealing with trauma and burnout have only EAP and health insurance, which members said don't fit every situation.
Mentions & discussions (5)
Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Committee - Regular Meeting — September 28, 2026
The committee has been pushing for a county peer support coordinator position, but it's not in the recommended budget. County administration and HR are still figuring out which department would house it, with the structure possibly ready by early next year if the legislature funds it.
Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Committee - Regular Meeting — June 22, 2026
The county's wellness survey got a 42 percent response rate, and feedback sessions are being scheduled across shifts and worksites — including a 6:30 a.m. highway department session — to capture all employees.
Budget, Capital, and Personnel Committee - Regular Meeting — June 8, 2026
County leaders are pushing ahead on a peer support program for employees dealing with trauma and burnout, with a peer support coordinator job description due by end of June and a price tag expected at the July committee meeting.
Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Committee - Regular Meeting — May 27, 2026
First responders and other county workers face heavy trauma exposure, and current support is stretched thin. The committee wants the legislature to fund a dedicated peer support coordinator who would train volunteers in every department. A resolution is being drafted for the July budget cycle.
Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Committee - Regular Meeting — April 27, 2026
A proposed peer support coordinator position for county workers — especially first responders — went unfunded in last year's budget despite a state study showing 911 dispatchers, police, EMS, and fire personnel face high rates of depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. Committee members want to educate the legislature before budget season so the roughly $124,000-a-year position isn't cut again.
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