Kearns tests expanding auto bureau hours downtown

County clerk trials extra hour last Thursday of each month in hopes it benefits city residents

Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns announced that, beginning Thursday, Jan. 31, the Erie County Auto Bureau will be open until 5:15 p.m. the last Thursday of each month. Kearns said he hopes the extra hour will be of benefit to city residents, as the downtown office is regularly open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. weekdays.

“I have heard from a number of city residents that they work until 3 or 4 and are unable to make to our downtown office by 4:15,” Kearns said. “I pledged to enhance and improve both the locations as well as the hours of Erie County auto bureaus as deemed necessary, and I believe this is an opportunity that could be of benefit to our customers.”

Kearns said the extra hour will be piloted on a trial basis through March, as the employees who will be working the extra hour will be paid overtime.

“I do hope those residents take advantage of the extra hour on Thursdays in order to conduct DMV business at their local auto bureau,” Kearns said. “However, if we find that the extra hour is also not economically prudent, I will be mindful not to waste taxpayer dollars if there is no financial benefit.”

The expanded hours until 5:15 p.m. will be held the last Thursday each month on Jan. 31, Feb. 28 and March 28. At that time, based on business volume, a decision will be made to either continue with the additional hours or return the regular hours.

A complete listing of all Erie County Auto Bureau locations and hours, including mobile sites, can be found by visiting www.erie.gov/clerk/autobureau.