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HNR Grant County Human Resources
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HUMANOURCES
1, A A t4 t C 0RESV V T Y Memorandum
TO: Board of County Commissioners
From* Decorah Anderson -Cook, Human
0 Resources Director
Date: 07/29/2025
RED Proposal to Implement Background Checks for All New Hires
Purpose
The Human Resources (HR) Office is proposing the implementation of a formal background check process for all new
hires in Grant County. This proposal is intended to enhance the County's hiring practices by ensuring a consistent, safe,
and thorough vetting process for all prospective employees.
Background
Currently, background checks are conducted inconsistently across departments. This variance poses potential risks,
including legal liability, reputational damage., and threats to workplace safety. A standardized background check policy
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will help mitigate these risks, ensure -fair and compliant hiring practices, and promote a safe- and secure work
environment.
Proposal Overview
1. Policy Implementation:
C-1 prior All final candidates receiving a conditional offer of employment will be required to undergo a background check p or to
their official start date.
2. Tiered Background Check Levels:
The type and depth of the background check will vary depending on the nature of the position. HR will coordinate with
departments to determine the appropriate background check level based on ob responsibilities, access to sensitive
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information, and interaction with vulnerable populations.
Tier 1--Standard Basic Check: Includes identity verification, criminal history (county/state/federal), and
employment verification. Also includes all locations lived for the last seven years.
• Tier 2 - Comprehensive Check: For positions with financial responsibility, public interaction, or access to
confidential information. Includes Tier I checks, plus employment, education verification, professional license, or
references.
• Tier 3 - Executive Check: Includes Tier 2 Comprehensive checks, plus two more verification/references and
security watch list.
Grant CountN! Human Resources - PO Box 37 - 35 C Street NW - Ephrata. IATA 98823 - (509) 754-2011
07/29/2025
RE: Proposal to Implement Background Checks for All New Hires
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3. Cost and Billing:
The cost of background checks will vary based on the tier required and will be coordinated by the HR Office through an
approved third -party vendor.
0 HR will facilitate the background check process.
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• Departments will be invoiced for the actual cost associated with their hires' background checks on a monthly
basis.
Estimated Costs (subject to need and vendor pricing):
9 Tier 1.- $43.99 — $5 1.00
Tier 2: $74.99 — $81.99
0 Tier 3: $99-99 — $150+
4. Implementation Timeline:
Pending Board approval, the RR Office proposes to beg -in implementation on January, 1, 2026. HR will notify
departments in advance and provide training and support to ensure a smooth transition.
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Benefits of Implementation
• Consistency: Countywide standard for hiring practices.
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• Risk Mitigation: Reduces legal and operational risks by vetting candidates thoroughly.
• Transparency and Fairness: Uniform procedures ensure equal treatment of all applicants.
• Safety and Security: Supports a safe and professional work environment for employees and the public.
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Next Steps
We respectfully request the Board's review and approval of this proposal. Upon approval, HR will finalize vendor
arrangements, develop implementation materials, and conduct department outreach to prepare for rollout.
Thank you for your consideration of this important initiative.
Respectfully,
Human Resources Director
Dated this cl day of 4tAA4 s202-5
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Board of County Commissioners
Grant County, Washington
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Grant County Human Resources — PO Box 37 — 35 C Street NNW — Ephrata, WA 98823 — (509) 754-2011