Norwalk, CT – Beginning Monday, March 16, 2020, Norwalk City Hall will operate with limited staff and scaled-back services amidst the growing COVID-19 novel coronavirus outbreak. Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling made the decision today, Thursday, March 12, 2020, in order to protect the health and safety of the public and City staff, while maintaining core government functions. A majority of Board and Commission meetings over the next two weeks will also be canceled, or moved to teleconference.
Norwalk City Hall will be open tomorrow, Friday, March 13, until 1 p.m. An updated schedule of changes, including department hours and services, will be released tomorrow. Norwalk Public Schools will have a 2-hour early dismissal on Friday, March 13 for all students and staff. Beginning Monday, March 16, all Norwalk Public Schools will then be closed for a two-week period.
“There is a growing concern of coronavirus affecting our residents and community spread is likely. Our Health Experts determined the best course of action is social distancing. We cannot stop government completely, but I made the tough decision to significantly scale back the services we provide and the number of staff who report to City Hall,” Mayor Rilling said. “This was not a decision I came to lightly, and I understand it will cause inconvenience, but my top priority is public safety. I appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation as we navigate these unprecedented times together.”
Meetings that remain scheduled may not occur in person, but rather, may be conducted via teleconference. Members of the public will be able to dial-in to participate. The City’s website, norwalkct.org, will post updated agendas and information in the coming days. The City of Norwalk strongly encourages members of the public to submit comments electronically for all upcoming meetings and public hearings.
“Given the ever-changing nature of this pandemic, I remain in constant contact with my top staff, the Norwalk Health Department, and local and state officials. The schedule of City Hall is subject to change, and I will be updating the public routinely over the days and weeks ahead with new developments,” Mayor Rilling said. “I ask the public to avoid heavily populated areas and large gatherings. I strongly encourage local businesses to consider taking necessary actions with their employees and customers. We all must take appropriate measures and precautions to help stop community spread.”
Members of the public are encouraged to sign-up for the City’s CodeRED Emergency Alert Notification System at norwalkct.org/codered. Mayor Rilling will provide updates on the City’s website, social media, and CodeRED. Those who feel symptomatic should call their doctor for guidance and avoid showing up to an emergency room or doctor’s office. Residents can call 2-1-1 for additional guidance. The most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 will also be shared online at norwalkct.org/coronavirus.
