Human Resources and Development (HRD) Consists of Individual and Organization Development, Personnel and Payroll Services. HRD partners with Agency programs and operational units, as well as with other County departments to improve how work gets done by assessing group and individual performances, and developing tools and programs to meet the needs of the changing workplace. HRD is a training and consulting group that creates strategies and programs that address: Improving Individual Job Performance Building and Sustaining Teamwork Promoting Career Growth Tracking employment and payroll processing Providing liaison services with Employee Benefits, Employee Relations, Risk Management and Payroll Services for Agency staff Promoting Multi-disciplinary Internships In addition, HRD has a Leadership Development Program. Research & Planning Consists of Research, Evaluation, and Planning services. R&P staff partner with other HSA staff and community partners to develop data, information and processes that support strategic decision-making, innovative program design, and effective and efficient services. Administrative Support Handles Contract Development, Facilities Development and Management, and Fair Hearings. The Contract Team helps to develop and process the numerous contracts for goods and services that are vital to maintaining our programs and services. The Facilities Team helps to create comfortable, safe and efficient working environments for our staff, some community partners as well as the people we serve. The Fair Hearing group ensures the ongoing integrity of our programs by affording an opportunity for recipients to resolve disputes. Special Investigations Investigates cases of suspected fraud in public assistance cases to ensure that resources are being used appropriately, that there are no criminal violations and that the benefits are issued to those who are eligible. The staff in this unit conduct internal investigations to ensure that County policies and procedures are followed and administered in accordance with appropriate directives. This unit is also involved in program improvement activities by conducting program evaluation reviews and making recommendations for action.