Date: May 11, 2026
To: Governing Body, Quality of Life Committee, and Finance Committee
From: Alvin Valdez, Benefits and Wellness Manager
Via: Sarah Bolleter-Gonzalez, Interim Human Resources Director
RE: Establishing a Permanent Mental Heath and Wellness Program
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The proposed resolution would remove the “pilot” status from the Wellness Leave Pilot Program, establishing that the City
of Santa Fe’s (“City”) Personnel Rules 13.91 and 13.92 would become permanent policy and be incorporated into the City’s
Personnel Rules and Regulations. Rule 13.91 provides one (1) wellness day per calendar year for classified, full-time and
part-time, exempt, and term employees; and Personnel Rule 13.92, provides up to two (2) hours per week of physical and
mental fitness leave for full-time, exempt, and term employees.
BACKGROUND:
The Wellness Leave Pilot Program was approved as a two (2) year pilot program by the Governing Body in 2023 through
Resolution No. 2023-17. The program, which is set to expire June 30th, was then extended in 2025 through Resolution No.
2025-40 in order to collect data and feedback from City employees to determine the impact of the pilot program.
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution
Fiscal Impact Report