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By Diana McFarland

Editor

Isle of Wight County offices are closed to the public beginning today, due to the coronavirus crisis. Signs will be posted to alert the public to the change.

There is no reopening date scheduled at this time.

Staff will continue to report to work and county offices/services can still be accessed via telephone, mail or online.

“It is important for folks to know that we will still conduct business and serve the public – we are not suspending any essential services.  In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we are temporarily altering our interactions with the public,” said Isle of Wight Assistant County Administrator  Don Robertson.

The Board of Supervisors still plan to meet for its regular meeting Thursday, March 19, 6 p.m. at the courthouse complex.

The Board met in a special called meeting Monday to review its operations, and functions that can be done by phone, online or through the payment drop-box will continue.

The Department of Social Services is conducting pre-screening over the phone before going to a client’s home, said Isle of Wight Coordinator of Emergency Services Andrea Clontz.

However, protective services, foster care inspections and other regulatory services must continue, she said.

The E911 Center has also added a list of questions to ask during a call with reference to possible exposure to the coronavirus. If a caller responds with “yes,” the responders will call Central Dispatch for further instructions. Emergency Services is cancelling all classes and training ride-alongs.

Isle of Wight County deputies are screening calls, and as much as possible, misdemeanor calls will be handed by phone, according to Clontz.

Tax Relief

The Isle of Wight County Commissioner of the Revenue is offering tax relief assistance through the mail to reduce exposure to the elderly and disabled. Applications are available at www.co.isle-of-wight.va.us/ or by calling 365-6272.

Windsor

The Town of Windsor had declared a state of emergency and has also closed its offices. Staff will still report to work and continue business via telephone, online, and payments can be made online or through the drop-box. Signs will be posted to alert the public to the change.

Smithfield

Smithfield Town Hall, the Town Manager’s Office (911 South Church Street), The Smithfield Center, the Isle of Wight County Museum, the Manor House at Windsor Castle Park, the public restrooms on Main Street, and the Luter Sports Complex are closed to the public.

The Smithfield Police Department lobby will remain open to the public with limited services.

Tax payments may be made online at the following link. https://www.smithfieldva.gov/page/pay-my-taxes/.  Other payments may be made via the telephone with exception of HRSD payments, which can be made directly to HRSD. As always, payments may be made at the drop box outside of Town Hall (310 Institute Street). Please call the Treasurer’s Office for assistance with other services. Most Planning, Zoning & Community Development services may be conducted via telephone and/or email.

Clontz Park as well as Windsor Castle Park will remain open (with the exception of the Manor House).  Visitors to the parks are encouraged to practice “social distancing.”

Town of Smithfield employees will continue to report to work during this time.

Residents may call 365-4200 for questions.