The City of Saint John sign is pictured in this file photo. Image: Brad Perry

Saint John will implement a four-day compressed work week for most of its municipal employees.

On Monday, members of Common Council unanimously approved the compressed work week.

“As a major employer, we are continually exploring ways to improve the workplace for employees and attract talent, while continuing to serve the community at a high standard,” said a statement from City Manager John Collin.

“Under our model of a four-day work week, all employees who can change will be working at least the same number of hours they do now but on a compressed Monday through Thursday schedule.”

While most municipal offices will be closed Friday through Sunday, several operations such as certain public works services, the City Market, recreation facilities, transit, parking enforcement, Saint John Water, and public safety services will continue to serve the community without interruption throughout the week.

Some of the goals for the four-day compressed work week include:

• Maintain productivity and service provision to the community
• Provide extended morning and evening customer service hours Monday through Thursday
• Offer greater flexibility in balancing work and life commitments for employees
• Support the organization in attracting and retaining employees

The four-day week will begin on Monday, October 17, and the city will offer extended morning and evening hours through its Customer Service Centre, One Stop Development Shop and Community Services, Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Officials said this will not impact online payments and other online services will remain available seven days a week.

The city will evaluate the pilot program after a year and decide whether it will continue.