Countywide : County Delays Action on Friday Closings

The County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday postponed for two weeks a decision on a controversial work program that gives county employees every other Friday off and closes county offices on those days.

The county administrative office recommended in a report to the board that the program continue because it saves the county nearly $1 million a year in utilities, janitorial services and other operational costs.

Supervisor Roger R. Stanton, however, questioned the cost-saving findings in that report. County Administrative Officer Ernie Schneider said Stanton has raised some “legitimate” concerns that he needs time to address.

Under the work plan, nearly three dozen county facilities, which offer the public a range of services from welfare assistance and health care to building permits and tax collection, are closed every other Friday. Most of the offices are open longer during the week to make up for the Friday shutdowns.

Stanton said he doesn’t oppose flexible work schedules for the employees, but doesn’t think the public should be denied access to county offices 26 Fridays a year.

The board will consider the issue on Nov. 8.