Earlier this month, the Henderson County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a one-time bonus, recognizing and rewarding the performance of Henderson County employees.
Vice Chairman Charles Messer conducted the meeting as Chairman Tommy Thompson was representing Henderson County at the state county commissioners association in Raleigh. Thompson was able to participate via telephone.
Commissioner Mike Edney summarized the action as follows: “The economic downturn over the past years has caused many counties to struggle with their finances, and the continued provision of services to citizens. Henderson County however, through the hard work and dedication of County employees, has continued to maintain a high level of service and one of the lowest tax rates in the state, while improving our net cash position by $4,495,623 over the preceding four year period. As a reward to our staff for your work and dedication over this timeframe, and as an incentive to continue to be good stewards of the taxpayer’s investment, we are awarding all permanent employees a bonus of $1000 for full time, and pro-rated for parttime. Thank you to each and every one of you, and Merry Christmas.”
Chairman Thompson, via telephone, stated “I fully support this action and wish to again thank county employees for their dedicated service.”
Vice-Chairman Messer echoed those comments, stating “We’re in a position to offer this bonus to our employees, because of the work you’ve done not just over the past four years, but for countless years past. It’s a pleasure to stand in front of you, and say thank you for what you do for the County and our citizens.”
Commissioner Grady Hawkins stated his reasoning for the action: “The consistent attention to detail by supervisors and department personnel on a daily basis ensured highly effective county operations while delivering quality services over a four year period. As a result we are able to reward our county employees with an appropriate additional Christmas compensation. Their contribution to our county’s strong financial position is significant!”
Newly-elected Commissioner Bill Lapsley added: “I am supportive of this action with the clear understanding that the staff has consistently produced a positive net operating income for the past 4 years which has contributed over $4M to the fund balance. This budget amendment of approximately $825,000 is a small return to those that performed beyond normal expectations on behalf of the County taxpayers.”