City to Move to Four-Day Work Week

McKENZIE (October 9) — The City of McKenzie will begin operating on a four-day work week starting January 1, 2026. During Thursday’s meeting of the McKenzie City Council, the Board unanimously agreed with the mayor to begin structuring the City to a four-day work week. In essence, the majority of employees would work Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Some crews would be subdivided to allow for Friday needs, i.e. Water Department, and Parks and Recreation.

​The change would not affect the Police Department or the Fire Department.

​The Council also agreed to a proposal to turn the city-owned Depot into a retail incubator. This would divide the historic building into four affordable retail units. An incubator program is designed to provide support, resources, and a low-risk environment for new and small retail businesses to grow and develop.

​The microunits would be available as part of a one-year lease that can be transitioned into two years. Final approval for the transition will take place in the November meeting.

​Lastly, the Council approved on the first reading Ordinance 574 dealing with Occupational Safety and Health Program. The ordinance has to be reapproved or modified every seven years. The second reading will take place in November.

​During department reports, it was noted that the Fire Department received 76 calls for September. 52 of those calls were medical-related. Chief Brian Tucker stated the addition of the new shift with medical availability has allowed for the uptick in medical support.

​The next regular scheduled meeting of the McKenzie City Council is November 13 at 6 p.m.