Wrentham Town Hall Hours May Change

The town Board of Selectmen voted at their meeting Tuesday night to try out a four and a half day schedule that includes weekend hours.

The board decided the trial hours would take effect in July and August, with evening hours on Tuesdays.

The matter was brought before the board by Selectman Robert Leclair.

"A number of surrounding towns, like Plainville and Norfolk, have four day weeks," he said. "The main thing is to have one night for people in town who are unable to come in [to the town hall] during the day."

Town Administrator William Ketcham said the town had discussed a possible change before.

"There was a committee formed of town employees, and most town hall employees reacted to the idea positively," he said. "At that time, there was a lot of interest in a four-day week because of energy saving possibilities."

Ketcham said the town was unlikely to save much money by moving to a four-day schedule, but said the benefit provided by having evening hours should be considered.

Selectman Bob Cohen suggested that the trial take place over the summer, and the board could see if it worked.

Board member Joseph Botaish said he deals with several town governments as part of his business, and said those towns open on a 4.5 day schedule are easy to work with.

Board Chairman Stephen Langley said evening hours had been attempted before, with mixed results.

"[Town Clerk Carol] Mollica has tried holding office hours at night," he said. "There was low attendance, but it may be because she was the only one open."