NEW EXTENDED HOUR/COMPRESSED WORK WEEK
After extensive research by City staff and after communication with the union and the public, the City of Merritt began a one year trial of a compressed 4-day work week with extended hours in fall 2022. Effective November 21, 2022, City Hall will be open to the public from Tuesday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:45 PM*, and will be closed Mondays.
The new schedule mostly only affects patrons of City Hall. This change does not functionally affect other departments such as Planning, Recreation, and Public Works. Using alternating schedules, the City is able to provide 24/7/365 service to address emerging public works issues or provide 7-day week recreational services.
Employees choosing to participate will work roughly 2 extra hours per day for 4 days. Some employees have the option to keep the standard 5-day work week, working from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. However, opening hours for City Hall will remain Tuesday-Friday.
The new compressed work week will not only add to the City’s ability to retain and attract staff, but will also increase morale and performance. Studies also indicate that extended open service hours for the community would be an undeniable benefit for those residents who work Monday to Friday.
*City Hall is closed for lunch everyday from 12:00PM – 1:15PM.
A SURVEY WILL BE CONDUCTED MAY 2023 (TBA)
EXCERPT FROM PRESENTATION TO COUNCIL
VIEW REPORT TO COUNCIL
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