City Hall closing during holidays to save money

As a cost-saving measure, City Hall will be closed during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day during December 27 to 31.

City manager Bill Lindsay said police and fire services would be the exception, as they will stay open throughout the holidays. However, non- emergency city services like public works and library services will be on a limited schedule, he said.

Only the main public library will remain open, Lindsay said.

The Finance Department estimates that the cost-saving measure may save the City as much as $450,000 in the form of reduced vacation liability, actual salary costs, and reduced occupancy costs.

Lindsay said about $350,000 of that will be in personnel cost savings from employees and another $95,000 in reduced utility costs.

City employees who have accumulated vacation time or sick leave can use that time during the five days offices will be closed. However, those who do not have vacation time will be required to take mandatory unpaid furloughs for the five days.

Lindsay said the cost-saving measure was discussed during a budget cut meeting as a positive move for the city’s finances.