September 9, 2005 (Annapolis) - County Executive Janet S. Owens announced today the County is considering a series of actions as a result of the continuing rise in gas and fuel prices. These measures will help reduce fuel costs for County employees, and ensure that County government is using the most fuel-efficient technology available, wherever feasible, in its motor fleet. None of the measures being contemplated will affect the level of customer service provided to the citizens of the County during the normal workday or workweek. “Given the extraordinary increases in gas prices we have been witnessing these past few months, exacerbated by the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf of Mexico, we must take steps now to mitigate, wherever we can, the impact of these high prices on our employees and on County government as a whole,” said Ms. Owens. “In the longer term, the County must take steps to address fuel use by our citizens and the business community which also benefits our environment and air quality,” she continued. County Executive Owens has set up a task force to contemplate some of the following measures: - Increased use of alternative work schedules where applicable such as the 4/10 schedule where employees work 4 ten-hour days in a work-week
- Use of flexible work start times and stopping times (Flex-time) to allow employees to travel during times of reduced traffic
- Encourage use of car pools and public transportation
- Encourage bicycling and walking if possible
- Provide opportunities to Telecommute where applicable.
The County Executive suggests that residents set thermostats higher during the cooling season and lower for the heating season. Making a conscious effort to turn off lights, computers, and any other energy consuming devises when not in use can help lower electric usage. | 
