Public libraries, parks and recreation programs canceled.
Frederick, Md (KM). Following actions announced by the Governor on Thursday, Frederick County Executive Jan Gardner announced on Friday that access will be limited to county buildings starting on Monday, March 16th. She says it’s to limit the risk of spreading the coronavirus.
She said employees be allowed inside, and those who have appointments. Citizens are encouraged to handle their business with the county over the phone, or on line.
Also, County Executive Gardner announced that public libraries will be closed from Monday, March 16th through Friday March 27th. Parks and recreation programs will be canceled, but the parks themselves will remain open to the public. Drinking fountains will be shut off.
During the news briefing, Council President M.C. Keegan-Ayer said a rezoning hearing scheduled for Tuesday, March 17th has been postponed until Tuesday, April 14th. A workshop to receive the audit of the Sheriff’s Office 287g program scheduled for March 24th has been canceled and will be rescheduled. In addition, the Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 30th has been canceled.
County Executive Gardner says her budget hearing set for March 23rd will be held, but it will be a virtual hearing. It will be broadcast on the County’s Government Channel and streamed on line, and residents can send in their comments via e-mail.
The Sheriff’s Office says it’s taking steps to limit exposure to COVID-19. Visitations to the Detention Center will be suspended until further notice, and that includes programs involving volunteers. Also, the fingerprinting service will be closed until further notice.
Beginning on Monday, March 16th, a state of emergency exists in the City of Brunswick. City Hall and the City Annex will be closed to walk-in visitors, but staff will be on hand to answer phone calls, and e-mails. Police officers will continue to respond to calls for service, but that could be handled by phone only.
During the briefing, County Executive Gardner said a case of the coronavirus was reported in Carroll County, but none so far in Frederick County.
By Kevin McManus