The Mount Vernon City Council is considering paying four city employees an additional $500 biweekly as compensation for taking on the responsibilities of the vacant Safety-Service Director position. This move comes after Rick Dzik resigned from the position to become the city manager in Huber Heights, Ohio.

In the absence of a Safety-Service Director, Mayor Matt Starr has assigned the duties to City Engineer Brian Ball, Utilities Director Aaron Reinhart, Public Works Director Tom Hinkle, and Development Service Manager Lacie Blankenhorn. However, elected officials are not legally allowed to receive extra compensation for these additional responsibilities.

To address this issue, the City Council will discuss the possibility of providing the four employees with extra compensation until a new Safety-Service Director is appointed. The proposal will be discussed in a committee meeting led by Councilmember Tammy Woods, the Employee and Community Relations Chair, prior to the legislative session.

This move highlights the city's commitment to ensuring that essential services are not disrupted despite the vacancy in the Safety-Service Director position. By providing additional compensation to the employees who have taken on these duties, the city aims to reward their efforts and maintain a smooth operation until a new director is appointed.

Overall, the Mount Vernon City Council's consideration of providing extra compensation to employees taking on Safety-Service duties showcases their dedication to the well-being of the city and its residents. This proposal will be discussed further in upcoming meetings before a final decision is made.