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Reviewing operations

The Municipality of Summerland is reviewing operations.

An operational review is never a comfortable time for employees in any organization.

In some instances, such reviews are used to justify closing departments or eliminating positions, resulting in tough times for those who are let go in the process and for those who remain but end up with extra work.

The changes also will affect all who use the services which had been provided with a larger staff. If fewer people are left to do the same amount of work, things are bound to change.

In the new year, Mayor Janice Perrino plans to examine the way in which the municipality operates, with an eye to improving its efficiency.

The intent of such a review is good and Perrino has said she does not anticipate major restructuring or job cuts as a result.

Improving efficiency is always a worthwhile goal and examining ways to make any organization run more smoothly can benefit everyone involved.

If the changes simply rework job descriptions and allow for some streamlining, then the review can be a positive experience.

The needs of the community are not the same as they were even a few years ago and if the municipality seeks to meet those needs, it is important to make the necessary changes.

However, the uncertainty will remain until the review is completed.

In recent years, Penticton has gone through cuts to its city departments and while Summerland has not experienced anything similar, the Penticton experience cannot be overlooked.

The municipality already runs quite lean. It has the task of providing a wide array of services with a limited staff and a limited budget.

Any changes from the proposed review must maintain or improve what is already in place.

 



John Arendt

About the Author: John Arendt

John Arendt has worked as a journalist for more than 30 years. He has a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Journalism degree from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute.
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