As more people plan to work during all or some of the curtailment period, it now seems appropriate that UB makes the institutional decision to remain open during this period, with staffing levels reflective of the anticipated level of activity during the week between the holidays. Building temperatures would reflect the fact that the university is open and services are being provided to the university community.

For this year, each unit will need to make an assessment of the level of staffing required to provide service to the university community, recognizing that the volume of activity probably will grow in future years.

There will be offices that, due to the nature of the services they provide and the customers served, will see little activity during this time. Minimum staffing should be planned. This change still should permit vacation use by many faculty and staff. Managers will need to determine vacation use as they assess required staff to insure adequate service during this time period.

Energy consumption was reduced during curtailment. The extent of savings each year was a function, in part, of the average temperature during that period. With the university open, energy savings will be reduced. In light of UB's commitment to conservation, the administration is asking the Environmental Task Force to examine how the university can effect energy savings during the entire year, and to make recommendations that will be reviewed and considered for implementation.

This notice is being published now to allow adequate time for all offices to plan for the delivery of services at an appropriate level and for individuals to plan the use of their vacation credits.

For this year, the university will be closed on both Christmas Day and New Year's Day.