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Employee benefit booklet Flipbook PDF
Employee benefit booklet
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Employee Benefits Cleveland County Government
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Cleveland County
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Cleveland County
Table of Contents Health Insurance
4
Health Saving Account
5
Biometric Parameters
6
Wellness Programs
7
Care Management
8
YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program
9
ER Coaching
10
Eat Smart Move More
11
YMCA Discount Membership
12
Tobacco Cessation
12
EAP
13
Fitbit Wellness Program
14
Walking Program
15
Annual Wellness Challenges
15
Couch to 5k/Walk 5k Program
16
Cleveland Cup 5k
17
Wellness Center
18
Pharmacy
19
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Cleveland County
Table of Contents Dental Plan
20
Community Eye Care
22
Aflac Group Accident Insurance
22
Aflac Group Critical Illness
23
AUL Short Term Disability
24
Texas Life Whole Life
25
Health & Benefits Fair
26
Awards & Recognition
27
Strong Awards
28
Sky King
30
Service Awards
31
Vacation & Sick Leave
32
Family & Medical Leave
34
Retirement & Death Benefit
35
Law Enforcement Officers Separation Allowance
36
Workers’ Compensation Leave
37
Petty Leave Leave
38
Education Assistance
38
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Cleveland County
Table of Contents Military Leave & Civil Leave
40
Paid Holiday Observed
41
Longevity Pay
42
20 Year Insurance Benefit
42
Local Government Federal Credit Union
43
Verizon Wireless
43
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Cleveland County
Health Insurance The county provides both individual hospitalization and dental insurance to all employees occupying permanently budgeted positions that are established one hundred (100) percent (forty (40) hours weekly). Permanent employees who are employed at least fifty (50) percent (twenty (20) hours weekly) but not one hundred (100) percent shall receive individual hospitalization and dental insurance with a portion of the premium paid by the employee. That amount is based on the amount of hours the employee works. Permanent employees shall be enrolled in the programs in accordance with the provisions of the insurance contracts and on the first day of the month following a thirty day waiting period. Deductions shall be allowable, at the option of the employee, to provide hospitalization and dental coverage for dependents in accordance with the provisions of the insurance contracts.
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Cleveland County
Health Saving Account (HSA) Having an HSA in combination with an High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) can help cover medical costs in an affordable way. An HSA pays for any qualified medical expenses. You can use your HSA to pay for doctor visits, prescription drugs or over-the -counter medicines prescribed by a doctor for you, your spouse and your dependents. Contribution limits are subject to change annually, but the limits do not change based on who makes the contributions or what your compensation is. Visit www.irs.gov/ publications/p969/ for the most up-to-date information about HSA contribution limits. You, your employer, or any other person can make contributions to your HSA. Your funds will accumulate without a maximum cap. However, the annual limit you can contribute to the HSA may not exceed the maximum contribution amount set by the IRS. Even if you no longer have HDHP coverage or your employment ends, you can still use the funds from your HSA, although you can no longer make contributions.
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Cleveland County
Biometric Parameters Health Saving Account Employer Fund Contribution EARN UP TO $1,100 HSA DOLLARS! Risk Factor
High Risk
Moderate Risk
Low Risk
Blood Pressure
$0 HSA >145/95 mmHg
$90 HSA 145/95—140/90 mmHg
$187.50/HSA or = 6.0
$90 HSA 5.51—5.00
$187.50 HSA < or = 6.49
Hemoglobin A1C
$0 HSA > or = 7.0
$90 HSA 6.5—6.99
$187.50 HSA < or = 6.49
$90 HSA Waist $0 HSA Circumference > or = 45” Male 40.1—44.99” Male 35.1—39.99” > or = 40” Female Female OR
$187.50 HSA < or = 40” Male* < or 35” Female* OR
Waist Circumference Alternative
N/A
$90 HSA Lose 1—2 Inches
$187.50 HSA Lose > 2 Inches* OR
Prior Year Weight In Alternative
N/A
$90 HSA Lose 5%
$187.50 HSA Lose 10%*
Waist Circumference Bonus
N/A
N/A
*$250 for meeting one of the low risk waist parameters
Non-Tobacco Bonus
N/A
N/A
$100 nontobacco use or completetion of approved tobacco cessation program
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Cleveland County
Wellness Programs Participation in the wellness program is completely voluntary and provides employees and retirees opportunities to receive premium savings as well as, for those that qualify, County paid HSA (Health Savings Account) contributions up to $1,100 . Participants covered on the health plan electing to participate in the wellness program are required to complete an annual biometric screening. Biometric Screening Our wellness program is centered on our annual biometric screening which is provided at no cost to employees, retirees and spouses. By participating in the program, participants will learn more about their personal health, allowing them to take control of any health concerns that may be identified through the biometric screening. The biometric screening consists of a venipunture, blood pressure reading, and weight and waist measurement. The blood draw is used to determine cholesterol levels and A1C levels. All of these factors are then measured against medical norms to determine any potential health risks. *Participants covered on the health plan and participating in the wellness program are required to engage in the following, if identified, in order to be eligible for discounted premiums and HSA dollars, if applicable: 1. Nutrition Management 2. YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program 3. Care Management
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities Care Management
HealthMapRx is a benefit available to Cleveland County employees, spouses and retirees that are covered under our health insurance. This benefit is provided by PPCN, a company specializing in chronic condition management program. A pharmacist care manager with advanced expertise in diabetes and cardiovascular disease will meet with participants one on one during working hours. The care manager will help participants prioritize health needs and develop strategies for managing health risk. Strategies include medication optimization, preventive care education and self management. You are eligible for this program if you are diagnosed or take a medication for diabetes, blood pressure or cholesterol or have received 3 to 4 risk factors from the biometric screening. Participants are awarded a $150 VISA card for successful completion of program requirements, allocated at intervals twice a year and $0 copays for condition-related medications filled at County Pharmacy.
Katie Ringley
Lori Wilson
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program
Participants identified for this program will be required to participate in this highly successful 12 month YMCA program. Employees, retirees or spouses qualified with an A1C of 5.7 or greater. The program consists of 25 unique sessions. Session 116 are weekly, sessions 17-19 are biweekly, and session 20-25 are monthly. Compliance with the biometric program, and eligibility for the discounted employee and retiree premium, require attendance at least 14 of the 16 weekly session. Physical activity is introduced during Session 5. Participants will receive a FREE family YMCA membership for the duration of the program. Contact Jessica Bridges, Senior Director of Healthy Living (704) 669-3631 for more information.
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE FOR THE BETTER
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities ER Coaching
Participants covered on the health plan identified with 2 ER visits will be contacted by a pharmacist care manager to confirm the visit was related to an emergency, and if not, to review alternatives (i.e. Wellness Center, Urgent Care) for any possible future visits.
*Participants covered on the health plan and identified for Nutrition Management, Chronic Disease Case Management and YMCA Diabetes Prevention programs and elect NOT to participate will be charged the non-discounted premium. *Participants covered on the health plan and elect to participate in the wellness program, but fail to meet participation requirements of any component will default to the nondiscounted premium for the remainder of the plan year.
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less
ESMMWL is a 15 week online weight management program provided by BCBSNC. Classes are conducted on-line but in real-time with a live instructor. Participants can communicate with their instructor receiving encouragement and feedback. Participants will track daily intake, weight and physical activity. Register and pay $30 online. If you attend 10/15 sessions and meet tracking requirements you will receive a full $30 refund. Contact Kelly Nordby, Coordinator (919) 707-5397 or [email protected] for more information.
Nutrition Counseling Services
These one-on-one sessions are geared toward addressing nutritional challenges, such as weight management, life stages, and various medical conditions. Employees, retirees and dependents covered on the health plan may schedule an onsite appointment with Carol W. Johnson, MS, RDN, LDN at the Cleveland County Health Department (704) 734-5223. The cost of visits is covered at 100% on behalf of employees/dependents on the health plan. Employees and dependents not covered on the health plan may schedule appointments and be billed to their insurance provider.
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities YMCA Discount Membership
Cleveland County has partnered with the YMCA to offer a phenomenal member discount which is payable by payroll deduction. Cleveland County provides a $10 monthly subsidy toward each employee’s membership. Membership for individual $14.00/mo and family $29.00/mo. Enroll at the Dover YMCA located at 411 Cherryville Highway, Shelby, NC. Access will be granted to all three YMCA’s in Cleveland County which include the Dover, Kings Mountain & Ruby Hunt locations.
Tobacco Cessation Employees, retirees and spouses are encouraged to refrain from tobacco use as this has been linked to many serious health conditions. In support of employees, retirees and spouses who take the initiative to quit, tobacco cessation products are available AT NO COST to all full time employees at our Public Health Center Pharmacy. Employees, retirees and spouses are also encouraged to meet with our physician at the wellness center to develop a quit plan designed specifically for them. Studies show that participation in a support group can dramatically improve success rates for tobacco cessation. One of one sessions are available through the Public Health Center at no cost to employees. Wellness Center
980-484-5248
Pharmacy
980-484-5164
Chris Breese, Pharmacist
Tobacco Cessation
Debra Biddy
980-484-5337
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities EAP
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free, CONFIDENTIAL, service that offers support and resources employees and dependents may need to address personal or work-related challenges and concerns. An EAP is designed to help with all kinds of life situations such as marital difficulties, family problems, parenting, grief, stress, depression, alcohol/drug abuse, elder care, crisis events etc. Through EAP, McLaughlin Young Employee Services, you and your family have access to hundreds of online articles, various elder care and child care locators, a savings center, health and wellness tools, and many interactive resources. Several online, legal and financial services are also available. To speak directly with a representative: Call EAP (704) 529-1428 or 1-800-6333353. To access the work-life web site: 1. Visit www.myemployeeservices.com 2. Click on “Access your Work-Life Services.” 3. Username: clevelandcounty2010 & Password: guest
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities Fitbit Wellness Program
This Fitbit Wellness program offers employees the opportunity to purchase a fitbit at a discounted price. Fitbit activity trackers help promote a healthier lifestyle by bringing about awareness of how active you are throughout the day. With a Fitbit you can track your steps, calories, active minutes, sleep and heart rate. You can compete in fitness challenges with your family, friends and co-workers. Fitbits are ordered quarterly through the Human Resources Department at a discounted price. Watch your email for order details. .
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities Walking Program
Each employee, at the discretion of his/her department head/supervisor, may combine their pre-meal break (15 minutes) and post-meal break (15 minutes) up to a maximum of five times per week in order to walk uninterrupted for 25—30 minutes. The uninterrupted walk time is counted as hours worked.
Annual Wellness Challenges
In an effort to promote health and wellness, each year we challenge employees to participate in friendly wellness challenges. The challenges are fun and allow employees the opportunity to win a nice prize while establishing healthy habits. Past challenges have included, drinking 64 oz of water a day, eating 5 fruits or vegetables a day and 30
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities Couch to 5k/Walk a 5k Program Annually, in preparation for the Cleveland Cup 5k, we team up with the Dover YMCA to offer a Couch to 5k and a walking program that enables employees to prepare for the Cleveland Cup 5k. These programs are led by a personal trainer and meet as a group once or twice a week for six weeks, depending on the program you choose. This is a great opportunity to get moving and to connect with co-workers as your prepare for the Cleveland Cup. The cost is FREE!
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Cleveland County
Wellness Opportunities Cleveland Cup 5k Each year Cleveland County, the City of Shelby and the City of Kings Mountain partner together for the Cleveland Cup 5k. This is a great opportunity for employees from each agency to come together for a fun wellness event. Awards are given to the top three runners in male and female age categories. The Cleveland Cup is awarded to the agency with the highest percentage of employee participation.
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Cleveland County
Wellness Center Wellness Center Cleveland County is pleased to provide an Employee Health & Wellness Center (EHWC) for all Cleveland County employees & their family members. Retirees covered under Cleveland County’s health insurance plan may also participate. EHWC offers a wide variety of healthcare services, These include but are not limited to: • Sick Care for: Sinusitis, allergies, ear infections, urinary tract infections, insect bites prostatitis, vaginal infections, skin infections & poison ivy. • Annual Visits such as: after ports physical, DOT physicals, sport physicals, and PAP smears. • Musculoskeletal Complaints such as: Sprained ankles, knees & shoulders, and acute back pain. Medical professionals staff the EHWC each workday. All personal medical service are confidential. Visits to the EHWC will not be subject to sick leave if visiting during County work hours. Sick leave will not be charged to the employee if the employee can return to work after the visit. All employees, retirees & dependents up to age 26 will be charged a $5 co-pay for all services. Employees, retirees & dependents up to age 26 not covered by insurance will have a $5 co-pay plus the cost of other services.
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Cleveland County
Pharmacy Cleveland County Employee Pharmacy Program Prescriptions are available through a formulary system for county employees & their eligible immediate family members. The pharmacy formulary has 3 price categories: • Category 1 prescriptions are available at no cost for up to 30 or 90 day supply • Category 2 prescriptions are available for a $20 fee for up to a 30 day supply or $60 maximum 90 day supply • Category 3 prescriptions are available for a $40 fee for a maximum 30 day supply A copy of the pharmacy formulary is available on-line through the Cleveland County Intranet, Cleveland County Wiki, and the public Cleveland county website. The formularies and prices are subject to change. The most recent insurance card must be provided to verify current coverage. Prescriptions are not processed on insurance. To have prescription expenses applied to your deductible, you must manually submit your receipts to the Employee Coverage Plan.
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Cleveland County
Direct Reimbursement Dental Plan This plan is a reimbursement program provided by Cleveland County to help offset the cost of dental expenses for its employees. It is not an insurance program. We believe that this self-administered plan offers greater flexibility for our employees while providing more value for the dollar amount invested. Eligible employees will be reimbursed on a semimonthly basis for dental expense incurred for themselves and their covered dependents after filing the proper claim forms and receipts. Non-excluded dental procedures are covered if provided by a licensed dental professional. Eligibility All employees eligible for health insurance coverage through Cleveland County will be eligible for coverage under this dental plan. The effective date for new employees will be the same as for the health insurance. An employee may elect to purchase coverage for his/her eligible dependents. Eligible Dependents include: • Your spouse • Your unmarried child(ren) (natural-born, legally adopted, or stepchildren) covered through the month in which • child(ren) turn 26 • Your children over the age of 26 who are unable to maintain employment due to physical or mental disability. Qualifying events, as determined by IRS, are: • Marriage • Divorce • Death of a Spouse or Child • Birth or Adoption of a Child • Change in Spouse’s Employment • Eligibility of Spouse for Medicare • Marriage of a Child
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Cleveland County
Direct Reimbursement Dental continued... If is your responsibility to notify payroll within 30 days of the occurrence when a spouse or dependent child is NOT Eligible for coverage. Types of Coverage 1. Employee Only 2. Employee + 1 Dependent –Child or Spouse 3. Employee + Family Cost for the dependent coverage will be established on July 1 of each year. Dependent premiums will be deducted semimonthly, under Section 125 Flexible Benefits Program. Deductible None Plan Year: January 1—December 31
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Cleveland County
Supplemental Insurances Community Eye Care Vision Plan
This voluntary vision benefit enables you and your family members to significantly reduce what you spend for routine eye care. The plan covers eye exams, glasses and contact lenses. The Community Eye Care vision benefits is simple and easy to use. It includes the following: •
An eye examination every 12 months ($10 co-pay)
•
An eyewear allowance of $150 (per person) every 12 months ($10 co-pay)
•
A contact lens fitting, re-fit or evaluation every 12 months ($30 co-pay)
Aflac Group Accident Insurance Plan
Aflac accident insurance provides benefits for the treatment of injuries suffered as the result of a covered accident. These benefits are payable regardless of any other insurance you may have. A few of the highlights of the Aflac accident plan: •
No limit on the number of claims you can file
•
An annual Wellness Benefit is included
•
Provides 24-hour protection
•
Payroll Deduction
•
Your plan is portable (with certain stipulations).
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Cleveland County
Supplemental Insurances Aflac Group Critical Illness Plan Aflac critical illness insurance provides lump sum benefits upon the diagnosis of each covered critical illness or event. Some highlights of the Aflac critical illness plan are •
An annual Health Screening Benefit
•
Spouse coverage is available
•
Benefit amounts range from $5,000 to $50, 000 for employees.
•
Your premiums are paid through the convenience of payroll deduction
•
Your plan is portable (with certain stipulations). That means you may be able to take your coverage with you if you leave your job.
Humana Group Cancer & Specified Disease Insurance Cancer & Specified Disease coverage can help offer you and your family member financial support during a period of unexpected illness. Plan features: •
Donor Benefits
•
Wellness Benefits
•
Portability
•
Pays regardless of other coverage
•
In and Out of Hospital Benefits
•
Covers certain Lodging & Transportation
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Cleveland County
Supplemental Insurances AUL Short Term Disability Many of us lead busy lives and seldom take time to think about life’s risks. You are considered disabled if, because of injury or sickness, you cannot perform the material and substantial duties of your regular occupation, you are not working in any occupation, and are under the regular attendance of a Physician for that injury or sickness. Highlights •
Affordable group rates
•
Convenient payroll deduction
•
Guaranteed issue for timely applicants
•
Easy access
•
Portability
*Note: It does not cover workers comp injuries or illnesses.
MetLife Term Life Plan You have the opportunity to elect additional group term life insurance through payroll deduction. Coverage includes employee, spouse and children from birth to age 19. Children may be covered to age 26 if enrolled as a full time student in an accredited school or college. You may elect coverage from $10,000 to $300,000 based on your basic annual earnings. Guarantee Issued coverage up to the lesser of $250,000 or 3 times salary if elected when first eligible. Completion of a statement of health form may be required based on dollar amount applied for.
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Cleveland County
Texas Life Whole Life You have the opportunity to elect whole life insurance through payroll deduction. The policy provides a guaranteed level premium and a death benefit for the life of the policy. Coverage includes employee, spouse, children and grandchildren. You will not have to pay a premium after age 65 (or for 20 years if you purchase the policy after age 45). Employees may elect coverage from $10,000 to $150,000. Premiums include non tobacco and tobacco rates.
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Cleveland County
Health & Benefits Fair The Employee Health & Benefits Fair is held annually in October at the LeGrand Center. The fair is held for three days in an effort to give employees the opportunity to visit the H&B Fair on one of the three days and enjoy a catered lunch, visit with vendors, sample healthy snacks, watch cooking demonstrations and get a flu shot and mammogram. This is a great opportunity to see co-workers and receive valuable information and updates on available benefits.
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Cleveland County
Awards and Recognition Cleveland Strong was originally a concept used to describe the innovative and comprehensive wellness programming implemented to improve employee health while controlling costs. Employee surveys indicated that employees viewed Cleveland Strong as more than a wellness program. Employees viewed Cleveland Strong as a concept that included our core values. Cleveland Strong awards were developed to identify employees that demonstrate these values. These annual awards are selected from nominations submitted throughout the year. Employees are recognized for demonstrating the Cleveland Strong values of Service, Teamwork, Respect, Opportunity, Networking and Getting Healthy. The top three nominees in each category and their supervisors are invited to the annual Employee Recognition Luncheon. One outstanding employee among the nominees in the categories of Service, Teamwork, Respect, Opportunity and Networking will receive $500 dollars. A bronze ($200) silver ($300) and gold ($500) award are given under the category of Getting Healthy.
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Cleveland County
Strong Award S
T
R
Service This award is for individuals who have demonstrated one or more of the following: • Provides a level of service to citizens, clients, coworkers and other departments in the organization that goes above and beyond the expectations of the job. • Anticipates customers’ needs and potential problems before they arise. • Constantly thinks about how best to meet their customers’ needs and acts promptly on customer requests Teamwork This award is for individuals who have demonstrated one or more of the following: • Show initiative and take the lead within the team to accomplish goals while encouraging and engaging all team members. • Develops and encourages cooperation and collaboration inside and outside of the organization while displaying outstanding group effort. • Consistently offers support, assistance and encouragement to co‐workers, often without being asked to do so. Respect This award is for individuals who have demonstrated one or more of the following: • Displays respect in all areas of communications, including verbal, body language, and listening. • Considers different viewpoints, philosophies, physical ability, beliefs and personalities of colleagues and citizens at all times. • Admired by coworkers or community for their abilities, qualities or achievements.
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Cleveland County
Strong Awards O
N
G
Opportunity This award is for individuals who have demonstrated one or more of the following: • Recognizes that problems and obstacles create the need for problem-solving, which serves to strengthen the organization and the community we serve. • Create new, cost-effective and/or innovative ways of performing day-to-day operations. • Seeks self-improvement in areas of performance, leadership, career development and personal growth. Networking This award is for individuals who have demonstrated one or more of the following: • Knows what resources are available and how to obtain and utilize them in order to benefit those they serve. • Fosters community relationships and partnerships to improve the way work gets done. • Seeks opportunities to share valuable resources with other local governments and Departments in the organization. Getting Healthy This award is for individuals who have demonstrated one or more of the following: • Maintains an ongoing healthy lifestyle and a longstanding commitment to nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, etc. • Has made lifestyle changes that demonstrate a commitment to healthy living and may have overcome obstacles to change their eating, exercise, etc. habits. • Inspires others by being a role model or encouraging others ongoing participation and commitment to wellness.
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Cleveland County
Sky King Award In Recognition of a Lifestyle of Caring and Kindness to Others $750 Award $1,000 Donation to charity of Winner’s choice Ronnie Hawkins lived a life of service. He was well known across the county for his involvement with non-profits. He was a Cleveland County Commissioner for 16 years and served on the Kings Mountain District School Board for 12 years prior to that. Commissioner Hawkins was a former member of the Kings Mountain Rescue Squad and Kings Mountain Fire Department. He served in the United States Army. He enjoyed being involved in the Boy Scouts of America and being an advocate for Education and Animal Rights. Ronnie supported numerous other non-profits in Cleveland County, too many to name. Ronnie Hawkins exemplified a lifestyle of caring and kindness to others. Nominations for this award are accepted throughout the year and are reviewed annually by a committee consisting of ....This award is presented at the annual Employee Recognition Luncheon.
Cleveland County
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Cleveland County
Service Awards Service Awards Cleveland County employees are recognized for their dedication and years of service at the annual Employee Recognition luncheon. Invitations are sent to employees celebrating service anniversaries in 5 year increments. (i.e. 5, 10, 15 etc.). Employees are formally recognized and given awards for their level of service.
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Cleveland County
Vacation & Sick Leave Vacation Leave Each regular salaried employee occupying a permanently established budgeted position shall earn vacation leave on a monthly basis in accordance with the following schedule of total service: Years/Service
Added
Hours Credited
0 -2
Per month
7 hours
2–5
Per month
8 hours
5 – 10
Per month
10 hours
10 – 15
Per month
12 hours
15 -20
Per month
14 hours
20 or more
Per month
16 hours
Vacation leave earned by an employee shall be taken only upon prior approval of the immediate supervisor or department head. All department heads, and other employees so designated by the county manager, must take at least five (5) consecutive workdays or accrued vacation leave per calendar year.
Sick Leave Sick leave with pay is not a right which an employee may demand but a privilege granted by the board of commissioners. An employee may be granted sick leave if the absence is due to: (a) sickness or bodily injury which may prevent an employee from performing his/her regular duties (b) Medical/dental appointments (for spouse, child or parent of
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Cleveland County
Vacation & Sick Leave continued…. (c) The actual period of temporary disability caused or contributed to by pregnancy, miscarriage, childbirth, and recovery there from. Since there is no certainty as to when disability actually begins and ends, a doctor’s certificate shall be required verifying the employee’s period of temporary disability recognized as sick leave. (d) Illness of a member of the employee’s immediate family, (spouse, child or parent of employee) or exposure to a contagious disease when continuous work might jeopardize the health of others. (e) Bereavement. Death in the employee’s immediate family, not to exceed three (3) days, for any one occurrence. Additional leave time (i.e. vacation, holiday or comp time) under exceptional circumstances, may be authorized by the department head. Immediate family for bereavement purposes is defined as wife, husband, mother, father, brother, sister, children, grandparents, grandchildren, plus the various combinations of half, step, in-law and adopted relationships that can be derived from those named. Notification of the desire to take sick leave should be submitted to the employee’s supervisor prior to the leave, or not later than two (2) hours after the beginning of a scheduled workday. Each regular salaried employee, occupying a permanently established budgeted position, shall earn sick leave on a monthly basis at the rate of eight (8) hours per calendar month.
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Cleveland County
Family and Medical Leave The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 grants covered employees up to twelve (12) weeks of unpaid leave per year. The twelve-month period used to determine the employee’s unpaid leave eligibility is not based on a calendar year or fiscal year, but any consecutive twelve-month period. Employees must have worked for the county for at least twelve (12) months and have, in the previous twelve (12) months, rendered at lease one thousand two hundred fifty (1,250) hours of service to qualify for this coverage. The basic thrust of the act is (1) a guarantee of rights to leave without pay, (2) a guarantee to return the employee either to that position he or she left when the leave began, or to an equivalent position with the same benefits, pay and other terms and conditions of employment, and (3) a guarantee that the county will maintain coverage for the employee under its health plan for the duration of the leave, meaning that the county will pay the employee’s portion of the premium and the employee will continue to pay dependent coverage, if applicable. The employee is obligated to return to duty by the end of the time determined appropriate. Failure to report at the expiration of an authorized leave of absence shall be considered a resignation.
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Cleveland County
Retirement & Death Benefits Each employee in a permanently budgeted position, working a minimum of one thousand (1,000) hours per year, as a condition of employment, must join the local government employees’ retirement system, upon completion of their probationary period. If an employee is currently participating in the retirement system upon employment, the employee is eligible to immediately participate without the waiting period. Employees must contribute, through payroll deduction, six (6) percent of the gross salary each month to the system. The county (employer) contributes an actuarially determined percentage of the gross payroll each month to the system.
401(k) Plan Supplemental retirement income plan of the state provides an automatic contribution by the employer for all participating members of the state governmental employee’s retirement system.
Death Benefit In the event of the death of an employee in active service, who had completed at least one full calendar year of membership in the retirement system, his beneficiary shall receive a death benefit equal to the greater of: (1) the compensation of which contributions were made by the member during the calendar year preceding the year in which his death occurs, or (2) the greatest compensation on which contributions were made by the member during a 12-month period of service within the 24 month period of service ending on the last day of the month preceding the month in which his last day of service occurs; subject to a minimum of twenty-five thousand dollars (25,000) and a maximum of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000).
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Cleveland County
Law Enforcement Officers Separation Allowance Law Enforcement Officers Separation Allowance The county shall provide a special separation allowance to qualified officers who retire early or who leave service early, and who meet all of the following qualifications: (a) The officer must have completed thirty (30) years or more of creditable service, or have attained fifty-five (55) years of age and completed five (5) or more years of creditable service. (b) The officer must not yet be age sixty-two (62) and (c) The officer must have completed at least five years of continuous service as a law enforcement officer immediately prior to service retirement. The separation allowance ceases when the officer reaches age sixty-two (62) or when the officer dies or is reemployed in any capacity by another state agency, whose employees are members of the retirement system. All law enforcement officers automatically become a member of the supplemental retirement income plan, on the date of hire, provided the officer ahs a the full power of arrest with the primary duty of enforcing criminal laws.
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Cleveland County
Workers’ Compensation Leave Any employee absent from duty because of sickness or disability covered by the workers’ compensation law shall have benefit leave, in coordination with and as outlined in G.S. Ch 97, to include the following: (a) The county requires all employees to make initial visit to the county’s recognized physician before any other medical treatment can be sought, provided the workers’ comp injury in non-emergency in nature. The supervisor and/or department head will determine if the injury is nonemergency if it is not obvious. In all cases, the county reserves the right to deny the workers 'comp claim if nonsufficient evidence exists to support the claim in question. (b) The county allows workers’ comp to reimburse the employee the required sixty-six and two-thirds (66 2/3) percent of gross pay, while out on workers’ comp leave. By the employee recouping the required sixty-six and twothirds (66 2/3) percent of gross, the employee, as provided by law, will not be paid for the first seven (7) days of work missed as a result of workers’ comp claim. Beginning at day eight (8), the employee will be reimbursed by our workers’ compensation carrier. If the employee misses twenty-two (22) days, workers’ comp will go back and reimburse the money for the fire seven (7) days missed.
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Cleveland County
Petty Leave & Education Assistance Program Petty Leave Each full-time, permanent employee of the county shall be allowed fourteen (14) hours annual pretty leave, with pay, over and above sick and vacation lave. (Half-time employees shall be allowed seven (7) hours annual petty leave, with pay, over and above sick and vacation leave). Petty leave may be granted for personal matters which cannot be transacted outside of office hours, time lost reporting to work, medical and dental appointments, and absences due to adverse weather conditions. Petty leave may be taken in increments of fifteen (15) minutes, up to a maximum of three (3) hours, with the permission of the supervisor and/or department head. Any time taken above three (3) hours will be charged as vacation, sick, comp, or leave without pay, as may be appropriate. Unused petty leave, at the end of the calendar year, will be forfeited. New hires, during the calendar year, shall receive petty leave pro-rated as to the number of months remaining in the calendar.
Education Assistance Cleveland County encourages employees to complete coursework to improve their skills and performance and/or help prepare them for promotional opportunities within the County. Funds for this program are budgeted annually and are disbursed subject to program requirements. Eligibility •
Cleveland County full time employees
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One year of continuous service (completed at application time)
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Performance evaluation of “Meets Standard” in the past 12
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Cleveland County
Education Assistance continued... •
Termination of employment for any reason prior to reimbursement will disqualify applicants for a refund
Requirements •
Approval is required in advance of beginning class from applicant’s supervisor, department head & HR director
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Coursework must e work related or required as part of a work related degree.
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Reimbursement will be made for tuition only up to an annual amount (school calendar year) of $1200 per employee. This will not include fees, books, etc.
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Successful completion of course with a “C” or better
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Coursework must be at an accredited and approved educational institution.
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Education assistance does not apply to course work required by the County
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Applicants are required to complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) application
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Reimbursement will be reduced by funds received for educational purposes from federal, state or others sources. Employees are required to report all awards of tuition assistance from any source
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Employees are required to remain employed 2 years following the tuition reimbursement payment. Employees leaving prior to this timeframe shall reimburse the County for a prorated amount of the benefit received.
For additional information and application visit the Human Resources WIKI page.
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Cleveland County
Military Leave & Civil Leave Military Leave Each permanent, salaried employee, occupying an officially budgeted position, who is a member of the National Guard or Armed Forces Reserve, will be allowed eighty (80) work hours of military training leave annually, with partial compensation. If the compensation received while on military leave is less than the salary that would have been earned during this same period as an active employee, the employee shall receive partial compensation equal to the difference in the base salary earned as a reservist of a guardsman, and the salary that would have been earned during this same period as a county employee. The effect will be to maintain the employee’s salary at the normal level during this eighty-hour work period. If such military duty is required beyond this eight-hour work period the employee shall be eligible to take accumulated vacation leave or be placed on leave without pay status. While taking military leave with partial pay or without pay, the employee’s leave credits and other benefits shall continue to accrue as if the employee physically remained with the county during this period. Employees who are guardsmen and reservists have all job rights specified in the Veterans Readjustment Assistant Act.
Civil Leave A county employee called for jury duty is entitled to a leave with pay for the period of absence required. He/she is entitled to regular compensation, plus fees received for jury duty.
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Cleveland County
Paid Holidays Observed The following holidays, and such others as the board of commissioners may designate, shall be observed by county offices, and shall be counted as hours worked: •
New year’s Day
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Martin Luther King Day
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Good Friday
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Memorial Day
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Independence Day
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Labor Day
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Veteran’s Day
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Thanksgiving (2 days)
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Christmas (2 days); provided that in those years when Christmas Day is observed on either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, an additional paid holiday will be observed, giving a total of three (3) days in such years.
All salaried employees appointed to a permanently established positions, shall receive these holidays with pay, providing that the employee is on pay status the day before and the day after the holiday period. Temporary, part-time and emergency appointments shall not be eligible to receive these holidays with pay. Departments shall be responsible for notifying payroll, in advance, to ensure these employees are compensated appropriately. Employees required to perform work on regularly scheduled holidays may be granted additional time off. Holiday time shall be granted whenever feasible, and shall be taken within three (3) months from the time it is earned.
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Cleveland County
Longevity Pay & 20 Year Insurance Longevity Pay Longevity is intended to reward employees for faithful continuous service on an annual basis. Longevity payment will be made to employees eligible in accordance with the following longevity pay plan based o total continuous service through November 30 (established eligibility date) in any calendar year. Longevity pay shall be distributed in a separate check, with the regular November 30 payroll. Years of services 10 but less than 15
Longevity Pay Rate 1.50 percent of annual salary
15 but less than 20 20 but less than 25
2.25 percent of annual salary 3.25 percent of annual salary
25 or more
4.50 percent of annual salary
20 Year Insurance Benefit The county shall continue individual hospital insurance to its employees upon termination, provided all of the following qualifications are met: (a) The employee is occupying a budgeted position established at least half-time. (b) The employee has completed a minimum of twenty (20) years of county service without a break in service during the last five (5) years of employment. (c) The employee is currently enrolled in the county’s health insurance program. (d) The employee must elect coverage continuation at the time of termination. Service as a part-time hourly, temporary, or CETA employee will not be considered in calculating the minimum of twenty (20) years. Participation in the county’s group plan will cease at age 65 or when eligible for Medicare.
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Cleveland County
Local Government Credit Union & Verizon Wireless LGFCU
As a Cleveland County Government employee you are eligible to join the LGFCU. The LGFCU is a not-for-profit cooperative and each members is a stakeholder. When the Credit Union grows and makes profits, those profits are passed back to you through lower loan rates, higher dividends on deposits and expanded financial products and services. You can join LGFCU by opening a Share Account. It’s a dividend-earning savings account that’s the foundation of every membership, and represents your ownership in the Credit Union. Benefits & Services provided: • Checking & Saving Accounts • Loans • IRAs • Credit Cards • Holiday Cash Club • Financial Counseling • Estate Planning • Discount Theme Park Tickets
Verizon Wireless Verizon offers monthly discounts for corporate, government and education employees as well as valued service members and veterans. Visit a Verizon Store or online at www.Verizonwireless.com.
CLEVELAND COUNTY Primary Business Address Your Address Line 2 Your Address Line 3 Your Address Line 4 Phone: 555-555-5555 Fax: 555-555-5555 E-mail: [email protected]