Wednesday, March 5, 2008

County amends political-activity policy

Some feared policy would limit runs for office

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By TONY EVANS
Express Staff Writer

The Blaine County Commission on Tuesday amended its draft employee political-activity policy to make it easier for county employees to run for public office.

The commission removed language stating that employees may be asked to take leaves of absence to run for public office against incumbent superiors. The original policy was written to head off possible disruptions in the workplace due to rival political campaigns.

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"I have not had a single member of the public speak in support of this policy," Commissioner Larry Schoen said. "It comes from our insurers. County employees in a rural situation like ours make so little in the first place that potentially losing their jobs is big deal.

"I think this is the risk you take (possible disruption in the work place) to fill these offices in a small town and have full community access to these offices."

The amended employee political-activity policy now reads:

"No employee shall;

- Engage in any political activity while on duty.

- Be required as a duty of office or employment, or as a condition for employment, promotion or tenure of office, to contribute funds for political or partisan purposes.

- Coerce or compel contributions for political or partisan purposes by any other employee of the governmental unit.

- Use any supplies or equipment of the governmental unit for political purposes."