March 16th, 2020 by WCBC Radio
Mayor Robert E. Bruchey, II has issued a proclamation of a Declaration of Civil Emergency in the City of Hagerstown (attached). As of 8am Tuesday, March 17, all City-operated buildings will be closed to the public in an effort to ensure the health and safety of residents and staff during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. That includes the Fit Room at Fairgrounds Park, the City Farmers’ Market, and the Hagerstown Ice & Sports Complex. The Greens at Hamilton Run golf course will remain open.
“We fully recognize these are unchartered waters for all of us,” Mayor Bruchey said. “While these measures outlined in the proclamation are temporary, they are necessary, and are being implemented with yours and our staff’s well-being in mind.”
Tuesday’s Mayor & City Council work session will take place as scheduled at 4pm; however, it will not be open to the general public or members of the media. The meeting will air live on Antietam Broadband cable channel 25, and will be streamed live on both the City’s Facebook page and YouTube channel as usual.
City tax and utility customers, as well as those applying for trade permits, are encouraged to use the online portal at www.hagerstownmd.org to make payments and inquiries. Staff will still be available to answer questions and aid in the bill-paying process via telephone. Additionally, all pay-by-phone and late fees will be waived through May 1 and there will be no service disconnections during that timeframe.
Resident safety will continue to be a top priority as law enforcement and fire operations will continue in full force and effect with emergency planning protocols firmly in place should the situation warrant.
“I would reiterate that this is not a time to panic. Please keep practicing good hygiene in regard to frequent hand washing and adhere to social distancing,” Mayor Bruchey said. “While all of this may create inconvenience for now, I assure you that by doing what we’re doing now that it will prove best for everyone in the long run.”
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