COVID-19 Updates
Continuity of Services and Operations
I
n response to guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health including the most effective strategies to prevent the spread of illness, all non-emergency-related City buildings have temporarily closed. The City will monitor guidance provided by health officials and will consistently re-evaluate the closures. The City's Executive Staff has prepared a plan for continuity of its emergency operations and remote services that will be available throughout the closures.
Mayor George Pandaleon states "As people order merchandise and food they should try to give preference to local merchants who are under extreme pressure for their very survival. Additionally, I'd like to personally thank and recognize all the residents and local organizations that have stepped up to assist their neighbors for their efforts in helping the community."
"During this time, we encourage residents to conduct business online or via email or by phone when possible. Please visit the City's
website
for the most current information," reports City Manager Jason Wicha.
Non-Interrupted City Services
Police and Fire operations, emergency responders, garbage/recycling, and water services are in full operation. Call 9-1-1 for emergencies and 847.234.2601 for non-emergencies. Since we've had some questions, please know that Lake Forest's drinking water is completely safe and unimpacted by the virus. The Public Safety Building (25
5 W. Deerpath) is open during regular operating hours.
Although the Public Safety Building will remain open, in order to prevent or limit the potential spread of illness in the workplace the City will be suspending various non-emergency services. A list of services that are temporarily suspended is available on the City’s
website.
Limited access to non-emergency staff will be available during regular business hours to assist residents by phone, email or by appointment as appropriate.
Non-Emergency Services are Suspended
All public buildings are temporarily closed: City Hall, Municipal Services Building, the Rec Center, Lake Forest Fitness Center, Lake Forest Library, the Compost/Recycling Center, CROYA, Kinderhaven, Deerpath Golf Course, Dickinson Hall (with the exception of voting today), Stirling Hall, the Cemetery Gate House, the Wildlife Discovery Center, all park buildings at community and neighborhood parks, and the restrooms at the beach.
Local COVID-19 Resources Include:
Those without access to the Internet can call the COVID-19 Hotline at 1.800.889.3931.
Reminders to Prevent the Spread of Illness
Clean
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
Cover
- Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- If no tissue is available, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
Contain
- Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Mayor Pandaleon also remarked that "Residents should rest assured that the City maintains regular conversations with the Governor's Office, Illinois Department of Public Health and the Lake County Department of Health, and we will keep you informed as often as possible."
