The Calera City Council has voted unanimously to switch to a four-day work week in a move to save money.

Starting May 27, all city offices, except for the police and fire departments, will be closed on Fridays, said Assistant City Clerk Connie Payton.

New City Hall hours are Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. The Calera Public Library, now open six days a week, will be closed on Sundays and Mondays starting May 25. New library hours are Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mayor George Roy, who proposed the four-day week during Monday’s council meeting, said sales tax revenue is down by about $40,000 a month.

“We’re trying to save a little money any way we can,” Roy said. “We’ll save a good bit on the power bill and people won’t be driving vehicles around like they normally do. We’re doing anything we can to keep from having to lay off any more (employees).”

The council voted to lay off 13 employees in an effort to salvage the city’s $18.1 million fiscal year 2009 budget in January. The layoffs are expected to save the city $400,000 this year. The council also voted to suspend employee step raises for one year.