The Public Service Commission is standing pat on its decision connected to four public service employees in Emerson.

 

The four Border Service Agency Officers are running for a spot on emerson town council.
 

Since January of this year, a change in legislation has given the Public Service Commission the authority to determine if government employees can hold municipal office.
 

Linda Gobiel is Vice President of Policy for the PSC.
 

She says it's their job is to protect the political impartiality of the public service.
 

Gobiel says border service officers hold authority similar to that of a peace officer with the power to seize goods, and arrest people.
 

She says its a very visible position and one that needs to be seen by the public as being impartial.
 

Gobiel says their decision to allow a four year leave of absence was an attempt to strike a balance.
 

She adds the employees are not being forced to resign from their jobs if they get elected.