City of Salem Mayor, Justin Green, announced additional protocols for city operations to comply with Executive Orders issued by Governor Eric Holcomb, including an order for residents to stay-at-home.
The new protocols follow previous changes to the operation of city government due to
the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to city offices being closed to public access, closure of the senior center, and suspension of parks and recreation activities, all city-owned parks are now closed, including Riley’s Place, Depauw Park, Elizabeth Street Park, and the baseball diamonds.
Walking and hiking trails remain open.
All city offices will continue to remain open by phone.
The Board of Public Works and Safety and Common Council meetings for April have been canceled.
“Again, I want to reiterate, these protocols are in place to slow the spread of this highly
contagious virus, to protect our most vulnerable populations, our healthcare system,
and first responders. Per the Governor’s order, all residents are to remain at home until
the Executive Order is lifted, except to seek medical care, purchase essential supplies
or medications, or to report to work at a business deemed essential,” said Mayor Justin
Green.
The Washington County Health Department also issued a mandate on Wednesday for all non-essential retail businesses to close to walk-in services to the public.
This includes, but is not limited to, nail and beauty salons, barbershops, gyms and fitness centers, and churches.
The Salem Public Library is also ordered closed.
Exceptions to the mandate are allowable for businesses providing life-essential services, including (but not limited to) banks, grocery stores, pharmacies, and delivery or carryout/curbside food services.
Exempted businesses must still abide by 10 person or less and 6 feet or greater
distance apart guideline.
The full list of mandated closures and exemptions can be at https://wslmradio.com/2020/03/25/dr-morgan-issues-immediate-closure-information/
As per the Governor’s recommendations, if you develop symptoms such as fever,
cough and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known
to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of
COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.
If you suspect you have COVID-19, please call your healthcare provider in advance so that proper precautions can be taken to limit further transmission. Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild.
If you have severe symptoms, such as persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new
confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face, contact your healthcare provider or
emergency room and seek care immediately, but please call in advance if possible.
Your doctor will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether
you should be tested.
Nonessential medical care such as eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed.
The stay-at-home order issued by Governor Holcomb will extend until April 7, 2020, at
which time it will be revisited to determine the need to continue or end the order.
The Governor’s office has posted a page with answers to frequently asked questions,
located online at https://www.in.gov/gov/3232.htm.
Residents are encouraged to contact City Hall with questions and concerns about the
city and state protocols at 812.883.4265 or info@cityofsalemin.com.
The Washington County Health Department can be reached at 812.883.5603.
