Sahuarita council makes 4/10 flexible work schedule permanent after pilot

The Town of Sahuarita council unanimously voted to transition the 4/10 flexible work pilot program into a permanent schedule for employees whose positions are amenable to flexible hours.

Human Resources Director Jessica Silva presented findings from the pilot and two staff surveys: a January check‑in and a final June survey. The June survey (88 responses) found 60 percent of respondents rated the town’s efforts to improve work flexibility as "extremely effective," and 67 percent rated the new hours as "excellent" or "good." Silva said 41 percent of respondents reported a large improvement in work‑life balance. "The 4/10 alternative work schedule is largely positive," Silva summarized.

Council discussion acknowledged operational challenges in some departments—police, courts, parks and recreation and inspections—where continuous weekday coverage remains necessary. Council members asked staff to address service continuity (including quicker check‑ins for new employees), consider combining flexible schedules with limited remote-work options and to run another comprehensive employee survey later this fall.

Councilmember Davis moved to make the 4/10 program permanent; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Mayor Murphy and staff said the permanence will be monitored with periodic check‑ins and a planned follow‑up survey to identify department-level issues and measure effects on recruitment and attrition.

The council also instructed staff to develop policy details such as Club Spike fees (the town child care program created during the pilot) and other operational procedures where necessary.