City Implementing Comprehensive Telework Provisions To Enhance Work-Life Balance For Employees

FOREST PARK, Ga. — July 3, 2024 — The City of Forest Park is pleased to announce the implementation of several comprehensive telework provisions aimed at enhancing work-life balance for its employees. The initiative underscores the city's unwavering commitment to fostering a flexible, supportive and highly productive work environment.

The L.E.A.F. (Leading an Essential, Able and Fulfilled) Life initiative — spearheaded by Mayor Angelyne Butler, MPA, and unanimously approved by City Council — represents a holistic approach toward addressing various aspects of employee well-being. In addition to telework provisions, L.E.A.F. Life includes a strategic focus on high-quality sustainable housing for the city's workforce. The housing platform aims to provide affordable, safe and convenient housing options for city employees who would like the option to live closer to the workplace. This component also seeks to reduce commute times, alleviate stress and promote a healthier work-life balance for all staff members.

“As a mother, elected official and public servant, I, too, recognize the critical importance of being able to balance professional responsibilities with one's own personal life," said Mayor Butler. "Our new telework provisions are meticulously designed to offer our employees the flexibility and support necessary to excel both professionally and personally. We firmly believe that a happy and healthy workforce is essential to our sustained success and innovation.”

A central recommendation from L.E.A.F. Life is the adoption of telework provisions, a practice that has gained significant traction among organizations worldwide. Telework, also known as remote work, gives employees the opportunity to perform their daily work duties from an alternative location, while still maintaining the same job requirements and standards as those in the office.

This innovative approach offers a unique option to utilize telework as a strategic human capital management tool that provides employees with greater flexibility and autonomy in their work. Key features of the new telework provisions include:

• Flexible Work Hours: Employees will have the option to work from home, enabling them to effectively balance work responsibilities with personal commitments.
   
• Hybrid Work Model: The new policy supports a hybrid work model, allowing employees to divide their time between working from home and the office. Specific work hours will be tailored to each employee's respective role and team requirements.
   
• Enhanced Technology Support: To facilitate seamless remote work, the city is providing enhanced IT support, including access to state-of-the-art collaboration tools acquired specifically for staff.
   
• Wellness Programs: Recognizing the importance of mental and physical health, the city is introducing comprehensive wellness programs that include virtual fitness classes, mental health resources and regular wellness check-ins.
   
• Support for Childcare and Family-Related Dependency Issues: The increased flexibility will also alleviate the challenges associated with childcare and other family-related dependency issues, while also giving employees the ability to manage their personal responsibilities more effectively alongside their professional duties.
   
• Employee Housing Options: The L.E.A.F Life's housing component offers affordable and sustainable housing options for city employees, ensuring proximity to the workplace, reducing commute times and enhancing overall well-being. This component aims to make quality housing accessible, fostering a supportive living environment that complements our employees' professional lives.
   
• Regular Feedback and Adjustment: The city is committed to continually reviewing and refining these provisions based on employee and customer feedback, as well as evolving needs. 

The new telework provisions will take effect on Monday, July 15, with comprehensive guidelines and support provided to ensure a smooth transition for all employees. Through collaborative efforts led by City Manager Ricky L. Clark, Jr. and Information Technology Director Josh Cox, the city has implemented a suite of advanced tools designed to ensure that service delivery to city residents and stakeholders continue to surpass expectations. Hours of operation for City Hall and all administrative offices will remain the same.

To learn more about the City of Forest Park, visit www.forestparkga.gov.

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