Coronavirus: New Carlisle declares state of emergency, closes buildings to the public

The city of New Carlisle has declared a state of emergency amid coronavirus concerns. JEFF GUERINI/STAFF

The city of New Carlisle has declared a state of emergency amid coronavirus concerns. JEFF GUERINI/STAFF

The City of New Carlisle has declared a state of emergency following similar actions taken this week by Clark County officials as well as those with the City of Springfield.

“Due to the state of emergency declaration, it is paramount that I implement new operational procedures that will limit exposure of the public and city staff to the coronavirus,” said New Carlisle’s City Manager Randy Bridge.

MORE: ‘This is going to be a long term thing’: Springfield, Clark Co. warn of coronavirus impact

As of Monday afternoon, there were no confirmed cases of COVID-19, or coronavirus in Clark County, according to Clark County Combined Health District Commissioner Charles Patterson. COVID-19 is a respiratory condition marked by fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Symptoms can appear up to two weeks after exposure, according to health officials.

However, Patterson said that he believes that there are cases in the community that have not yet been tracked.

In order to take precautions and prevent the virus from potentially spreading in the area, New Carlisle has closed all city owned buildings to the public. The entry way to the City Administration Building will remain open due to the night deposit box, according to a news release sent from the city.

“Should the night deposit box be used to a pay a utility bill, please place your bill stub and payment method in the envelope (provided on sight) to ensure proper account credit,” the release said.

However, city officials are urging residents to pay those utility bills online at www.newcarlisle.net or have the funds automatically deducted from their bank accounts.

MORE: Clark County workers impacted asked to apply for benefits online

Bridge said he is also implementing new work schedules for all full-time city employees. Starting today, city staff have been divided into two groups that will work alternating schedules, he added. In addition, all city sponsored special events over the next several months have been either cancelled or postponed.

City council meetings have also been reduced to once a month and will be held on the first Monday of each month until further notice.

The public is being asked to conduct city business by phone or email if possible and to limit direct contact with employees out in the community, when possible. Face-to-face city meetings have also been discontinued in the meantime.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office will remain on duty in the city and the New Carlisle Fire Station will be closed to the public.