This is the “norm” in public employment today, unfortunately. Something serious has been wrong probably since the end of WWII! Public employment isn't about filling positions that are necessary for the functioning of our government and the delivery of services only government can “provide.” It is about paying people more than they are worth in exchange for their keeping politicians in their offices. They are “jobs programs” masquerading as necessary government employment.
The Oakland building inspectors are trying to keep up but they have to work around their 14 paid holidays, 5 weeks paid vacation, 2 weeks paid sick leave, paid family leave, bereavement leave, and that floating personal holiday.