Courthouse Phones Lack Service

We've all had to handle it: You dial. You listen. You wait.

You aren't sure who you need to speak with, but you really need some help. Several computer prompts later, you are still not in the right place.

Phoning any business can be a challenge, and by adding governmental red tape, fancy-titled departments and a large quantity of offices in one location, navigating a phone system without the aid of a human being can be even more confusing.

PhillyBurbs.com recently reported that Montgomery County has eliminated two full-time and one part-time switchboard operator positions at the courthouse.

"On some systems, you can listen to the entire push-button menu and then wait for 'someone' to pick up your call," said the report. "But Montco doesn’t even give you that option. And if you happen to still use a rotary phone, you’re totally out of luck."

The site argued that the savings was not worth the frustrations of callers.

"[The county saved] a combined $55,738 in yearly salaries and benefits," said PhillyBurbs. "That’s on a general fund budget for 2013 of about $409.6 million — a minuscule percentage."

What are your thoughts? Is calling the courthouse a nightmare? Or are you able to easily navigate the system? Do you think all citizens can?