County considers a shortened workweek

St. Joseph County officials appear poised to implement a 35-hour work week for county staff.

For the second consecutive executive committee meeting, commissioners focused on ways to close an anticipated financial shortfall of $150,000. With 2020 revenue coming in less than budgeted, the potential deficit has emerged as a priority for commissioners.

The proposed measure would cut five hours of work – and pay – per week for county employees.

While commissioners are hopeful relief may eventually be offered through the state via the federal government, they acknowledged that they have to begin planning as if no help will be provided.

Despite county administrator Teresa Doehring’s point that a once-a-month furlough day would have the least impact on employees, commissioners appeared to favor the seven-hour work day because of the greater financial savings it offers.

Doehring said a 35-hour workweek from September through December would result in savings pretty close to the goal of $150,000.

The measure is slated for a vote at the commission’s board meeting Tuesday next week.