Summerland, B.C., is officially adopting a four-day work week for many municipal staff and is considering expanding the program to additional departments.
The pilot program started in July 2023 and allowed staff at municipal hall and the aquatic centre to complete full-time hours over four days instead of five. The trial lasted 18 months and tested how a compressed schedule could affect operations and employee satisfaction.
Mayor Doug Holmes praised the initiative, saying it “provides a positive work environment by giving employees a better work-life balance.” He added that the program aligns with the district’s goal of supporting staff well-being while maintaining service quality.
Before the pilot, municipal hall hours were 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. During the trial, hours shifted to 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, allowing employees to compress their work week without reducing service time.
While some staff, such as building inspectors and corporate services employees, continue a five-day schedule, the majority of municipal staff now enjoy a four-day work week.
Summerland Chief Administrative Officer Graham Statt, who also participated in the trial, said he has seen clear benefits. “It’s been great, and I’ve been able to spend a lot more time on those days with my grandchildren,” Statt said.
At a recent council meeting, members endorsed staff recommendations to continue the compressed work week in its current form. Council also approved exploring options to expand the four-day schedule to more employees while ensuring essential services remain uninterrupted.
Statt emphasized that the district aims to balance staff needs with public service. “Our commitment is to staff, customers, and councillors to find solutions that benefit everyone involved,” he said.
Other municipalities in B.C. have experimented with similar programs. Merritt recently concluded a four-day work week pilot for municipal employees, returning staff to a standard five-day schedule. A city spokesperson said the one-year trial, launched in 2022 and extended by another year, has now ended, but declined to comment on its results.
The four-day work week has also received political support in the province. During its provincial election platform, the B.C. Green Party proposed pilot programs for the model and promised tax credits for participating businesses.
Summerland’s adoption of a compressed work week reflects a growing interest in alternative work schedules in Canada. Municipal leaders argue that such programs can improve employee satisfaction, reduce burnout, and support family and personal time without affecting productivity.
As districts like Summerland continue to monitor outcomes, officials will likely adjust the program to suit operational needs and public demand. For staff, the policy offers a chance to achieve a healthier work-life balance while maintaining their professional responsibilities.
The district plans to review the program periodically, looking for opportunities to expand it further. By doing so, Summerland hopes to become a model for other municipalities considering flexible scheduling options.
