Message from Newtown First Selectman Dan Rosenthal

Things continue to move quickly in our nation and state’s response to coronavirus.

This afternoon the Governor followed earlier moves by California and New York in ordering that non-essential businesses close and people stay home (Stay Safe and Stay Home) for a period of 30 days beginning at 8p this Monday, March 23rd.

While this move is dramatic and perhaps frightening to many of you, it is really meant to continue to force the social distancing that is critical to mitigate the spread of this illness.

The Governor’s order will allow for medical facilities, pharmacies, grocery stores, gas stations, convenience stores, liquor stores and restaurants (take out only) among others to remain open and serve the public.  More guidance on what businesses are deemed essential will be released through the weekend and can be found at portal.ct.gov/coronavirus along with other important information.

Our local grocery stores are working hard to keep their shelves stocked and will remain open.  As such, please resist the temptation to hoard.

From a municipal government perspective, the Governor’s order will have an impact on the day to day services provided by our town departments and staff.  We are in the process of sorting through what services will remain, but rest assured public safety, public works, health and human services will be deemed essential and continue serving our residents.

As I mentioned last time, please look out for your neighbors and if folks are in need of public assistance please direct them to our Human Services Department.  Also, please remember to support our local restaurants and merchants however you can.

We are fortunate to have great weather so please take advantage of all the open spaces Newtown has to offer but not in groups.

Finally, in a word of caution, please do not assume that because we do not have a diagnosed case of coronavirus in town that it is not already here.

You know you live in a great town when, despite what I am certain are intensely difficult times for all of you, I get more phone calls and emails offering support and assistance to our friends and neighbors than anything else.  For that, I am humbled and grateful.

Thank you and goodnight.

N
Submitted by Newtown, CT

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