First Selectman Weekly Update 3-27-2020
Hello North Stonington,
We hope todays message finds you healthy and well. Things do continue to be busy in Town despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
Thanks to those who joined our virtual “drop in” on Thursday evening where I was joined by Ledge Light Health Districts Nurse practitioner Mary Day. We discussed some town updates which are included in this update as well as some health updates. Feel free to watch the broadcast here if you were unable to join last night. Click Here to view the video
We have installed a drop box outside Town Hall for your convenience. You may leave any correspondence in this box for town hall staff such as tax payments, permit applications, or other pertinent documents. The box will be checked throughout the day by staff. As a reminder we are open normal business hours 8-4 though the buildings are locked to public access. If access is needed to the building, arrangements can be made if it is an urgent matter. Our staff is still working in “rotating” shifts and some remotely as well to keep everyone safe. We are happy to be able to continue to be here for the community to serve you and your needs. Special thanks to the staff on their flexibility during this difficult time.
The highway crew also continues to work as normal though we are also providing a work environment that includes physical distancing for them as well. This week the crew cut trees on Rocky Hollow, Hollowell, and Main Street. Sweeping took place on Babcock, Reutemann, Hangman Hill, Ryder, and Chester Main. The Hewitt Road and parking were graded. Next week tree work will continue on Main Street, sweeping will continue throughout town as well as stop bar painting.
There has been a massive shortage of blood drives in the area. North Stonington will do its part to try and collect locally. The Red Cross will be holding a drive at the Recreation Center, 267 Norwich Westerly Road, from 1-6pm on April 2nd. We ask anyone who is able to come out and donate. Please be sure if you do come out you maintain the 6-10 feet of distance between you and others.
We have temporarily suspended the “Swap shed” donation area at the transfer station but the transfer station is currently continuing to operate during normal business hours. The basketball courts at the rec field have been closed temporarily as well. Both decisions were made for the safety of the community to help promote the physical distancing.
Our Elementary School renovation is getting close to complete! Flooring is mostly done in hallways and classrooms, the upper level is nearly done, and lighting and millwork is in for the most part. Here are some pictures of the recent work.
Speaking of schools, special thanks to all of the teachers, staff, and crews at the schools. The teachers and administration been asked to make some quick changes going to a distance learning format. They are working hard to make sure the students in our community don’t miss a beat. Thanks to them for their flexibility. We also are so thankful for everyone at the school for their commitment to our community. I am so proud of our team here at Wheeler!!
Over the past week many, many conference calls have taken place with State and National leadership regarding COVID-19. We are all working hard to make sure our communities stay as safe as possible. All signs point to this situation becoming worse before it gets better. Please heed the warnings and “Stay safe, stay home” order from Governor Lamont. We know it’s not possible for everyone but if it is possible for you, please do your part. As a reminder, if you need assistance either mentally, physically, or otherwise please utilize 211 to see what help there is for you.
For businesses who are struggling and we know there are many, a recent bridge loan program has been created for immediate cash assistance. Please see the Governors press release on this topic…
https://portal.ct.gov/Office-of-the-Governor/News/Press-Releases/2020/03-2020/Governor-Lamont-Launches-Emergency-No-Interest-Loan-Program-for-Small-Businesses-and-Nonprofits
I’d like to thank the emergency responders for all they do, have done, and are about to do to serve our community. In the face of dwindling protective supplies, they continue to be champions for all of us. Thanks is not enough for them but please remember our crews’ day-to-day and thank them for their willing sacrifices. We have the best emergency service teams around here in North Stonington! Thanks to all of our crews from NSAA, NSVFC, TROOP E, Nurses, Doctors, and all healthcare professionals everywhere!
That’s it for today.
Mike Urgo
First Selectman