By Bob McGarry, Haddam First Selectman.
Tomorrow is the big day when we start reopening businesses. I know you’ve heard this but it bears repeating just because businesses are opening doesn’t mean COVID-19 is closed. The virus is still here. Please follow the guidance, face coverings, social distancing, etc. to protect yourself and others. Businesses opening tomorrow include: restaurants (outdoor dining and take-out), museums and zoos (outdoors only), retail and malls, and offices. I’m sure you’ve heard barber shops and hair salons which were going to open on May 20th have been delayed until June. More details and business guidance can be found here. If you believe a business is violating the guidelines you can report it to the State Police non-emergency number, 860-399-2100, option 4.
To help small businesses with reopening, CBIA and CONNSTEP are offering masks and infrared thermometers free of charge to qualified businesses as long as supplies last. More information and application links can be found at masks and thermometers.
The Town Office Building will begin a phased reopening starting with the Town Clerk’s office in early June followed by the Tax Collector’s and Tax Assessor’s offices in July. We are in the process of making changes to the building to allow a safe reopening. Hours will be limited, there will be time reserved for seniors and appointments will continue to be accepted. Even though you’ll be able to come in I strongly encourage you to use the mail or online options to conduct business with us. We’ll also be installing a secure drop box in front of the building. I’ll keep you updated.
Since my last update the Governor has issued eight new Executive Orders. Highlights of the most widely applicable orders are:
- EO 7II – Dog licenses renewal period extended until August 1st
- EO 7JJ – Elderly tax relief renewal (The tax assessor sent letters to everyone affected by this.)
- EO 7PP – More details on business reopenings, includes information on summer day camps, prohibits summer resident camps.
Please continue to look out for your neighbors and support our local businesses. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter. We will get through this.