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Town of Amherst takes steps to mitigate impact of COVID-19

As the COVID-19 pandemic makes its way into the Maritimes, the Town of Amherst is updating plans to attempt to ensure the continuity of essential municipal services.

The Town is taking a number of measures to address the health and safety of the public and its employees.

“We are accepting the recommendation of the Province of Nova Scotia and requiring all of our employees who travel outside the country to self-isolate for 14 days on their return,” CAO Greg Herrett said. “Where it is practical, they will be required to work from home during self-isolation if they are not symptomatic.

“We are also increasing our sanitation efforts in all facilities, assigning more resources and placing an emphasis on common touch points and surfaces.”

The town is also temporarily closing or restricting public access to a number of facilities. In making the announcement Mayor Dr. David Kogon said, “The safety of the public and our employees is our number one concern. By temporarily restricting access to a number of facilities we hope to slow the progress of the virus and limit the opportunity for transmission.”

The Town is putting the following temporary closures in place effective immediately, until further notice:

  • The Amherst Fire Hall will be closed to the public, including the main meeting room on the second floor and the Russell Hunter Room;
  • The Amherst Police Department – The Francis Smith Community Room will be closed to the public;
  • The Public Works Garage will be closed to the public;
  • The Community Credit Union Business Innovation Centre main conference room, hub and board room will be closed to the public;
  • The Amherst Stadium will be closed to the public, including the walking track and meeting room.

Amherst town hall will remain open, but measures will be put in place next week to provide a barrier between the public and reception staff.

“While we regret having to make these provisions and acknowledge that they will create some inconvenience, they are a necessary first step in helping to keep our community healthy,” Kogon said. “We ask for your patience and support in these extraordinary times.”