The Emmet County Board of Supervisors Tuesday approved a full-time mental health position to replace a person who is currently working 30 hours a week and has indicated she is resigning.

Emmet County Mental Health Director Dorothy Christensen asked that the position be extended to full-time to help cope with a heavy workload and also to attract more applicants to the position. Kolette Delperdang, targeted case manager, has indicated she will be resigning as of Oct. 31.

Christensen said the person hired would need the equivalent of a bachelor's degree in human services plus one year of experience in three fields: severe mental illness, mental retardation and adult developmental disabilities.

Supervisor Jim Jenson suggested that now would be a good time to consider grooming an individual to fill Christensen's position. Christensen said she may retire January 2011.

Christensen said the board could look at a number of positions that could be realigned after people retire.

Supervisor Randy Beaver suggested that the position be left at 30 hours a week and the person be allowed additional hours as needed.

Jenson moved that the position be extended to full-time, and the board agreed.

In other business, Roger Patocka, county engineer, said secondary road crews have been cleaning ditches, mowing, blading and working on culverts.

Patocka also noted that an employee had indicated he would retire. Patocka said he is preparing to hire additional help for snow removal this winter.

Department heads also updated the board on activity in their departments.