SUNDRE – The municipal office will no longer be open between Christmas and New Year’s.
While the town’s office would previously be open for a couple of days over the holidays, council recently agreed to lock the doors during that period as per an administrative recommendation.
Chris Albert, director of corporate services told council during a recent meeting that administrative staff had over the past few years monitored and reviewed the activity that happens at the town office during the week between Christmas and New Year’s, which generally amounts to about three days, including how busy staff are during that time.
“Based on the information that we’ve gathered, we are requesting an amendment to the 2023 and 2024 meeting calendars to show that the office will be closed between Christmas and New Year’s,” said Albert.
Coun. Owen Petersen motioned to that effect and explained why he supported the change.
“I know how efficient a lot of offices can be. And I know there are times when folks in an office are just required to sit there and warm a chair when they already got all their work done,” he said.
“I support this for our staff to be able to take that time off. I understand that it might be a bit of an issue for some residents who want to access the office during that time, but if administration makes sure that it’s known about, then I think our residents can adjust.”
Seeking clarification, Coun. Todd Dalke asked if the additional days would be counted as paid time off.
“That is correct,” said Albert. “Our intention is to treat them similar to stat holidays.”
Without further debate, council carried the motion with Dalke opposed.
