The discussion regarding the proposed bonuses became a topic of discussion at the Town Council's June meeting, when introduced by Acting City Manager Wieprecht, who stated, "I think doing something to show appreciation for folks who came in, or even worked full-time remotely, would really be appreciated by the employees."

While the council generally agreed that a bonus should be considered for employees whose jobs are affected by the coronavirus epidemic, the discussion of which employees should qualify has led to an array of opinions.

The main question to be resolved, possibly at the August meeting, was whether or not bonuses should be given to all town employees, those who took paid or unpaid leave, or those who reported for jobs that were deemed essential.

Councilwoman Diane Foster said she would like to see the bonuses given across-the-board to town employees. Otherwise, she said, if it was divvied up only among a sub-group of town employees, "I think you create a moral situation."

Mayor Wantz stated, "I don't think that's the fair way to do things [paying out the bonuses across-the-board]." He pointed out the array of circumstances involving how employees worked (or didn't work), and "those that had to show up, and those who did not show up, with both parties being paid, whether they had to come in, or work from home," further noting that, some employees had paid-days off, while some did not.

Councilman Daniel Haines suggested that only those who had to report to work (such as essential employees) and interacted with the public, placing themselves at risk, should receive bonuses.

Wieprecht said he viewed the bonuses to be more recognition for those who were not able to have time off because of their essential function.

The council then directed to 'flesh-out' the concept, and bring a proposal back to the board, including his recommendations on how the bonuses were to be paid, for further consideration.