OBSERVER Photo by M.J. Stafford

The city of Dunkirk’s new Clerk/Treasurer’s Office has closed for the remainder of the week due to “temporary staffing constraints,” according to a press release from Mayor Kate Wdowiasz’s administration.

“Although the front counter will be closed, staff will remain in the office to answer phone calls and continue assisting residents as needed,” Wdowiasz’s office stated.

“Residents may submit tax payments and water payments using the secure drop box located inside City Hall. The city administration strongly encourages residents to pay by check or utilize the online payment options available on the city’s website.”

Wdowiasz’s release acknowledges that.

“This temporary adjustment follows concerns raised during last night’s Common Council meeting regarding timeliness and service efficiency.” A real estate agent, Barbara Hauck, complained that the office is not returning phone calls nor providing documents or certificates in a timely manner.

“The city is taking immediate steps to ensure operations are structured in a way that better serves the community,” the City Hall release promises.

It concludes, “The mayor and the city clerk/treasurer thank residents for their patience and cooperation during this transitional period. The Clerk/Treasurer’s Office will reopen Monday for regular business hours. Updated hours of operation will be announced in the near future.”

The offices of city clerk and city treasurer were combined earlier this year. Amy Dobek heads the combined office.