Wednesday, 08 October 2008 02:43

Cuts At Social Services Lead To Restructuring

slide2.pngBy Alex Lane - Recent retirements and cost cutting measures at the Amador County Social Services Department have led to restructuring in order to provide for continuity of services. Eight employees, including two top managers - the Health and Human Services Agency Director and the Director of Social Services - retired simultaneously this year to take advantage of the Early Retirement Incentive Program. As a result, a team headed by County Administrative Officer Terri Daly has taken on the task of reorganizing the department. Major changes in the organizational structure include, restructuring management, transferring financial functions, and an overall integration of functions. “The structure will create more management and financial depth for the department and increase outside oversight,” said Daly in a report presented to the Board of Supervisors. Although the Board is not scheduled to vote on the reorganization before January of 2009, Daly said the County would benefit by enacting the proposal by November 1st, “given the large number of retirements in Social Services.” The total cost for the proposal is estimated at 533,754 dollars. Due to these tough economic times, no new positions are being hired from outside the County at this time. Open positions will be hired internally.