Batavia may help pay for employees' continued education

Batavia plans to again offer partial reimbursement for classes employees take to improve their skills and further their careers.

The city cut the tuition reimbursement program from its budget as a result of the 2008 recession when it was looking for ways to save money.

This week Human Resources Director Wendy Bednarek asked aldermen for permission to reinstate it.

Bednarek said it would help attract employees since nearby towns offer the benefit.

It would also help retain good workers, and with succession planning for positions particularly in the public works department, she said.

She cited as an example laborers who often start at a young age and without a college degree.

"Sometimes, while they (later) may have the work experience and understand the city, they may not have the educational background" for advancement, Bednarek said.

She did not cite a specific dollar amount for the program; that will be worked out in planning the 2018 budget after she finds out how many employees are interested. Aldermen usually begin discussing the budget in November and vote on it in early December.

The city already pays for training and certification required for some jobs. This program would help people seeking degrees or continuing education credits.

Aldermen suggested that the city require people to stay working for the city for a minimum amount of time after they receive the payment.