2026-08-03-minutes-bocc-office-admin-meeting

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08/03/2026 MINUTES 4 has been discussed periodically and has become more relevant since the office relocation, noting that there is very little to no public foot traffic or phone activity on Fridays. She explained that most in-person visits on Fridays are from County Staff and, while office Staff appreciates the opportunity to connect with coworkers, those interactions can create interruptions that impact productivity. Ms. Kjorsvik stated that she is able to accomplish more focused work with fewer interruptions and would appreciate the opportunity to have a remote workday when appropriate. She noted that Staff experienced this benefit during the pandemic when they worked remotely and, after returning to the office, recognized how much more could be accomplished with fewer disruptions. She stated that remote Fridays would provide a balance by allowing Staff to remain in the office four days a week to interact with coworkers and the public while providing one dedicated day to complete focused work and prepare for the upcoming week. Ms. Kjorsvik clarified that if meetings or other business requiring in-person attendance occur on Fridays, Staff would make appropriate arrangements to ensure office coverage. Vice-Chairman Osiadacz stated that she supported staff exploring this option. She noted that, as a resident of Upper County, she appreciates the ability to work remotely on days when she does not have in-person meetings, particularly given current fuel costs. She added that she believes other Staff members may also benefit from reducing unnecessary travel to Ellensburg when remote work is feasible and operationally appropriate. Julie Kjorsvik, Clerk of the Board, stated that Vice-Chairman Osiadacz had also discussed potential options to help offset fuel and commuting costs for Ms. Larsen, including the possibility of working an additional day each week from a location in Upper County. She explained that, during her discussions with Ms. Larsen, Wednesdays had been identified as a potential option; however, Staff would remain flexible regarding the specific day selected. Ms. Kjorsvik further stated that staff would remain flexible and, if in- person attendance was needed for meetings or other business, would make the necessary adjustments to ensure coverage and support operational needs. The Board expressed support for offering an additional day of work from an Upper County location. Discussion followed regarding potential locations that could be utilized and the possible added benefit of providing a satellite location where Upper County residents could drop off materials intended for the Commissioners’ Office. It was noted, however, that any such benefit would be tied to the Staff member's residence and work location and could change if those circumstances changed in the future.