2009 News

August 24, 2009

Bucks County Announces Changes to Courthouse Phone System That Will Result in Substantial Savings

The Bucks County Information Technology Department has implemented changes to the phone system at the Bucks County Courthouse that will lead to over $100,000 in annual savings.

Previously, eight phone numbers, corresponding with major zones in the county, were available for the public to call the courthouse operator free of charge.  During an average week, the operator receives between 5,000 and 10,000 calls with the majority directed to the District Attorney’s Office, Clerk of Courts, Judges, Prothonotary, Domestic Relations, and Children & Youth.  As part of the new system, these phone numbers will be replaced with one direct toll-free line to the courthouse operator, 1-888-942-8257.  Individuals who live outside the county can still call 215-348-6000.

As a result, the county will save an average of $9,024.00 monthly. 

“I applaud the IT Department’s efforts to streamline the current phone system and eliminate costs,” noted Commissioner Chairman Charles H. Martin, “It is a fine example of operational and financial efficiency.”

Information Technology notes that callers can still continue to call county departments directly at their listed numbers.

In a separate but related item, IT has established a system so that callers wishing to get directions to the courthouse can be transferred to an extension that provides directions electronically via a series of selection options. That number cannot be dialed directly.