Here is a story with some smarts to it. Writer, Kyle Stucker, reports on Fosters.com that a member on the Berwick Board of Selectman wants to conduct background checks for all full-time workers.
Selectman Bob Crichton declared, “”I think it’s a safeguard for the town. We certainly don’t need legal expenses because somebody has committed some kind of felony or action that would be against the principals of community government.” Good call and a smart move. This is refreshing, in fact.
Usually, with local governments and public service agencies, they wait until there is some embarrassing fiasco before someone calls for background checks on the employees. Often it is a criminal case, or a costly civil suit. Sometimes, more often than one would hope, it is related to sexual offenses. Then when the story is splashed across the news, the lawsuits are initiated, and, worst of it, someone is killed or injured, economic concerns are not the concern they once were. Not when the cost of litigation is much greater than the nominal cost of background checks.
Of course, in the hallowed tradition of government, some do cite the costs. It is a good point, especially in a bad economy where agencies and governments are facing budgetary constraints. But then there is the cost of financial liability. Take the risk of embarrassment and costly litigation when you fail to check out your employees? Or spend the money up front, just so you will know? I realize in this economy it can be a difficult call.
Other officials and fellow small town government representatives see the merits of initiating background checks on full-time employees. We shall see if the legislation passes.
