When a senior staff member quits, he is required to give a 90-day notice. According to Escambiia County PIO, Sonya Smith, the County Administrator has three options:
A) Require employee to work his 90-days,
B) Payout all his leave that day and say, “Adios,” or
C) Allow the employee to leave for his/her new job, but continue on the county payroll so that the employee can help finish any projects and be available for consulting.
County Administrator Bob McLaughlin chose to let former HR director Rod Powell stay on the payroll to Jan. 29, 2009. On Nov. 1, Powell was allowed to leave and go to work as the HR director at Augusta, Ga. Powell also qualifies for the special early retirement benefits.
According to an email, dated Sept. 23, 2008, from Powell to Rod Sorrells, who is now the HR manager, Powell agreed to continue to teach/develop SPPI process improvement training classes/workshops prior to initiation of his 90-day severance period on Nov. 1, 2008.
On Oct. 15, 2008, Sorrells accepts his transition to early retirement and writes, “I have assured management that you will be available for consultation during this transition period.”
As of June 30, 2007, Powell’s salary was $95,492.80. Based on that figure, his consulting will cost the county $23,873, plus payroll taxes and any benefits.
BTW: Powell was hired on Jan. 2, 2003. His starting salary was $79,000. Over four and a half years, his pay increased $16492.80 – 21%. He also got a county car to drive.