Along with the State of Minnesota, Douglas County has proclaimed Tuesday, July 27, as County Staff Appreciation Day.
Douglas County commissioners approved the proclamation at their regular board meeting Tuesday, July 20.
Chairperson Jerry Rapp said the commissioners wanted to express their gratitude to all county staff for everything they have done and endured over the challenging last year.
“We very much appreciate the flexibility and dedication our employees showed during the last year,” Rapp said. “Our priority was providing uninterrupted services while keeping our employees and the public as safe as possible.”
The proclamation recognizes the hard work and dedication shown by county employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. It states that Douglas County maintained critical county services and employees dedicated their time, skills and expertise up to seven days a week, 365 days a year during the pandemic while taking on personal risk.
ADVERTISEMENT
County employees embraced additional health and safety standards that continue today, said Rapp. Employees, as well as the commissioners, also embraced technology that allowed for residents to receive services online and staff members to work from home when necessary.
“Our staff didn’t miss a beat thanks to creative thinking and making residents aware of their options,” said Douglas County Board Vice Chairperson Tim Kalina. “The innovation in how we deliver services will continue because we know people find the options convenient and efficient.”
The proclamation concluded with a hope that the entire community will observe the day with “appropriate praise, recognition and gratitude.”
Gov. Tim Walz proclaimed County Staff Appreciation Day across the entire state of Minnesota, declaring that county employees serve as the cornerstone of their communities.
To go along with the proclamation, Douglas County commissioners are looking at ways to show their appreciation. At the board meeting, Commissioner Heather Larson said maybe the commissioners – with money out of their own pockets – could host a picnic or something similar for all the county employees.
They are looking at options and are hopeful something will take place either in late August or early September.
