City committees and boards are now "suspended for 30 days" or until the ordinance is terminated. The one group that can meet in that time is the City Council, but only on matters directly pertaining to the novel coronavirus and other public health and safety issues. Citizens are "strongly encouraged" to watch Council meetings online rather than come in person.
"Public safety is our top priority," said the Mayor. "And as much as we value the people's input, we cannot in good conscience hold public hearings or other events if there's a chance they will put someone at risk."
At Monday's Council meeting, Ken Jarrard -- a lawyer for the City -- noted "this situation is evolving on an hourly basis," calling it "an extraordinary time."
"We're simply reacting as best we can to protect our citizens and do the people's business," Jarrard said.
Initially, the City announced closures and cancellations through April 12. All those - in athletic programs, events, and the like - will now extend a few more days, City leaders will continuously evaluate the situation, and these plans may change at any time.
Monday's decisions align with guidance from the CDC and other government agencies promoting "social distancing" -- the idea that interactions should be limited in order to halt the spread of COVID-19. This plays into that notion that everyone can
play a part in "flattening the curve," so the number of coronavirus cases in Georgia levels out until the threat dissipates.
"Being proactive can save lives. That's why we are taking these extraordinary steps, doing our part to get ahead of this virus," said Lockwood. "We believe that acting now - as challenging as it may be -- is in our best interests for the long-term."
Even with buildings closed to the public, City employees throughout our government will continue to serve our citizens in myriad ways. There will still be inspections and permits issued, for instance. The Public Works Department will maintain right of way and tackle other projects. Police officers will continue to patrol Milton, working diligently to keep the City safe for all. And members of the Milton Fire-Rescue Department will keep responding to calls for fires and medical emergencies.
And citizens can still interact with, and be served by, City employees - even those who work remotely. People are encouraged to use the City's website,
https://www.cityofmiltonga.us, to get more information, including who to contact for specific matters. Individual departments like Police, Fire, and Finance have already, or may soon, release information specific to their operations on the City's social media and websites.
If you do not know who to contact and cannot find the information you are looking for, you can call 678-242-2500 or email
[email protected].
"We are here to serve," Lockwood said of the City's government. "That won't change."
The City has made numerous changes in recent days, and more are likely. These adjustments aim to balance our charge to balance our citizens' and employees' safety while providing the best service possible. For example, the deadline for Occupational Tax Certificate (a.k.a. business license) renewals has been extended to April 30 from its original March 31 date.
The City of Milton greatly appreciates the public's understanding, patience and assistance as it navigates this unique, challenging period.
"To the residents of Milton: We will get through this," said Lockwood. "Once this emergency passes, Milton's government will be back even more open, effective and stronger than ever. In the meantime, you should have faith that - emergency or not - we're still here to serve you."
