JJ Scofield
IVN Contributing Writer
&
Daniel J. Mancuso
IVN staff
Josephine County has recently introduced a Voluntary Employee Resignation Program designed to encourage up to 32 employees to voluntarily resign from their roles. Eligible employees who participate in this initiative will receive 740 hours of pay in addition to any accrued leave, in accordance with union agreements or county policies. This substantial package could translate to as much as six months’ salary for those who choose to opt in.
So far, 18 employees have taken advantage of this program, including an unexpected participant: Finance and HR Director Sandy Novak.
Novak’s resignation has garnered significant attention, especially since she was responsible for overseeing the resignation program. Her departure is expected to result in an estimated payout of $80,000.
Novak began her journey in Josephine County as the Assistant Finance Director under former Director Arthur O’Hare. Her successful tenure as Deputy Director led O’Hare to recommend her as his successor. However, in 2024, Novak also assumed the role of overseeing Human Resources, despite lacking formal HR experience. Her time in HR was fraught with challenges, including the controversial termination of two commissioner board secretaries, which exposed the County to potential litigation due to procedural missteps.
Additionally, two department heads alleged retaliation from commissioners, leading to a $45,000 investigation. While the investigation substantiated these claims, the findings have not yet been made public, which contradicts county policy requiring transparency.
Novak’s resignation creates leadership vacancies in both the Human Resources and Finance departments. Her exit is particularly critical as the County prepares for upcoming budget negotiations, necessitating the appointment of a new budget officer.
During a meeting March 5, the commissioners granted Andreas Blech the authority to independently make all hiring decisions, without the need for input from other board members. The expressed purpose was to streamline the hiring process for the vacant positions.
Blech has appointed Michael Sellers, the county’s Information Technology director, to oversee both HR and Finance, alongside his IT responsibilities. Sellers also serves as the Emergency Management director.
In addition to the two departments Sellers currently oversees, Sellers also works full time for Senator Noah Robinson, and is the vice chair of the Josephine County Republicans. Sellers has a lot on his plate; however, the County has not yet commented on how Sellers will manage all six positions.
In terms of the budget officer role, Blech is bringing on Simon Hare to take on that responsibility. It’s uncertain if Hare is still working in his capacity as project manager for the county’s broadband project.
Josephine County now faces the challenge of filling these essential positions while ensuring transparency and efficiency in its governance. The community will undoubtedly be closely observing Blech’s next steps.