An employee may be granted a leave of absence with pay to attend conferences, seminars or other education or training programs when such events or programs are intended to improve or upgrade the employee’s job related knowledge, skills or abilities. If it is found to be in the best interests of the county, reimbursement to an employee of the cost of tuition for such event or program may be allowed subject to the availability of funds and the prior approval of the department head in accordance with appropriate reimbursement procedures. Any employee who desires to attend a conference, seminar or other function, or who desires to enroll in an accredited educational institution, shall apply to the department head at least 10 working days in advance of the proposed enrollment and shall submit a course description. If approved, reimbursement for the cost of tuition at an accredited educational institution shall be contingent upon satisfactory completion of the course (i.e., a grade of "C" or better or the equivalent thereof). An employee, who is granted tuition reimbursement and then voluntarily terminates county employment, shall be required to repay any reimbursement which is received during the last six months of his/her employment. If the employee is required to attend such training by the county, he/she shall be reimbursed for allowable and documented expenses incurred incident to such training. (Added by Ord. 84-129 § 2, Nov. 21, 1984).