ST. PETER — Nicollet County commissioners unanimously approved a separation agreement with human resources director/assistant county administrator Jamie Haefner Tuesday.

Action came without discussion on a motion by Commissioner Marie Dranttel, seconded by Commissioner Jack Kolars.

On April 2, commissioners accepted Haefner’s resignation. Under the agreement, in exchange for the release of claims, the County shall pay Haefner her regular salary at her final rate of pay, dental, and health insurance contributions through June 25, beginning the pay period after her right to rescind her release of all claims expires.

Haefner is deemed to have elected COBRA coverage effective April 2. No additional leave benefits shall accrue following her March 25 resignation date.

The agreement is not an admission of wrongdoing on the part of Haefner or the County or any of its employees, officials or agents. The specific reason for the agreement is to resolve the relationship between the parties in an expeditious and amicable fashion.

Commissioners unanimously approved:

• Proclaiming April 18-24 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week, motion by Commissioner Dranntel, seconded by Commissioner Denny Kemp.

According to the proclamation, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week provides an opportunity to recommit to ensuring accessible, appropriate, and trauma-informed services are offered to all crime victims. Nicollet County is hereby dedicated to supporting victims and survivors in the aftermath of crime, building trust among clients; collaborating with other service providers, and engaging our community in response efforts.

• Discussed the county administrator and human resources director hiring process. Earlier this month, commissioners unanimously accepted a separation agreement with county administrator Ryan Krosch and Haefner’s resignation.

Nicollet County Property Services Director Mandy Landkamer was appointed interim county administrator until a full-time county administrator is hired.

Landkamer said a number of firms are available to help find full-time administrative staff including Baker Tilly, GovHR USA, and David Drown Associates at varying costs. She estimated the time to hire staff at four months. It was also mentioned that the South Central Service Cooperative in North Mankato may be considered for executive searches.

Commissioner Terry Morrow suggested discussing the subject further at an April 20 virtual county board workshop that begins at 9:30 a.m.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their extra work during this period. Things seem to be going quite well,” said Morrow.

Kolars also thanked county employees for their work.

• Nicollet County Attorney Michelle Zehnder Fischer talked about the recent number of scam attempts.

“I’d like to remind people to be very mindful of scam attempts,” said Zehnder Fischer. “Don’t provide personal information over the phone.”

“Share this with your loved ones,” said Commissioner Dranntel. “These phone calls sound real. It’s frightening.”

Fritz Busch can be emailed at fbusch@nujournal.com.