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Commission debates summer Friday hours for courthouse; asks staff for more data
Summary
The Griggs County Commission discussed a proposal to close some county offices at noon on Fridays from Memorial Day through Labor Day but deferred a decision and asked staff to collect department‑level input and peer examples from nearby counties.
Commissioners discussed a proposal to shorten some courthouse hours on Fridays during the summer season but did not adopt the change at the April 21 meeting.
County staff proposed closing county general offices at noon on Fridays from Memorial Day to Labor Day, while keeping certain services — such as social services, extension and the sheriff’s emergency functions — available. “A lot of counties do it after Memorial Day until Labor Day, and close at noon,” the county presenter said, noting departments could adjust schedules so staff still reach their required weekly hours.
Several commissioners voiced concerns about public confusion and service access. One commissioner said he receives complaints when residents go to pay bills and find staff not available. Others asked for a clear list of which offices would participate and suggested department heads should decide whether closing is workable for their operations.
Commissioners also asked for comparative information from neighboring counties that already operate reduced summer hours. The commission did not adopt the rule at this meeting and directed staff to bring back: (1) department‑level preferences and operational impacts, (2) examples of how nearby counties handle summer hours, and (3) a plan to keep building access and critical services available to the public.
The item will be revisited at a future meeting once staff gathers the requested information.
