Friday Closures

Most City of Santa Maria departments began closing to the public every Friday starting June 29, 2018 due to budget constraints.  Operations and other public services remain open. 

The Friday closures will not affect the Police Department, Public Library, Recreation and Parks Department, or Utilities Department.

The Friday closures are in an effort to aid staff in completing job duties during this time of unfilled and unfunded vacant positions.  The City is continuing to balance its budget with many strategies, including not filling vacant positions where possible.  During the Friday closures, City employees will still be at work to get the public’s work done. 

Friday closure signs in English and Spanish are posted at all affected City buildings, and notices are on the City’s website.

The City regrets any inconvenience.  Customers are asked to schedule their in-person business on other weekdays, and when possible to utilize online services at www.cityofsantamaria.org. 

Since Friday, June 29^th, the City has a 9/80 alternative work schedule for full-time employees in participating departments.  Some employees are voluntarily adjusting their work schedules to 80 hours over a nine-day period.  The effect on the public should be minimal.   

Santa Maria is not the first to adjust its schedule. The City of Goleta offices are closed every Friday, and City of Santa Barbara offices are closed every other Friday due to a 9/80 work schedule. 

Santa Maria City offices have previously closed on Fridays due to budget constraints. In 2010 through 2013 the City was closed for a total of 49 furlough days. The City had also used the furlough program in 1994 and 1995. 

Questions may be directed to the City Manager’s Office at (805) 925-0951 extension 2372.