On November 11th, FYN reported that City Employee Faye Steppe requested the City of Blue Ridge to lay her off. Steppe said that she has been on sick-leave since July and, in that time, has had two surgeries and suffers from Palsy of the face. But, more important, she sought action from the City because if she did not return to work by November 18th, her position would be terminated. After a series of discussions, the Council decided to shelf the matter in order to collect more data and make a sound decision.

In a recent conversation with FYN, Council Member Rodney Kendall explained that the Council sat down with Steppe to discuss the situation. The meeting proved fruitful. According to Kendall, the City decided to extend Steppe’s sick leave until February 26th. Kendall said that the City chose this date because this is when Steppe’s doctor said she is able to return to work. Until this time, the City will pay her insurance, Kendall noted. Previously, the City had hired someone to take Steppe’s place in the financial office in her absence. When Steppe returns to work (on February 26th or later), Kendall said she would be able to have her job back. However, Steppe may not have her exact job back, but if this is the case, Kendall explained that the City would find a position for her.

As the February deadline approaches, the City will meet with Steppe again to see if she is well enough to return to work and take it from there, Kendall said.