Waterford Bans Large Gatherings, May Close Schools

WATERFORD, CT— The city is calling for postponement on all non-essential gatherings of over 100 people in the wake of concerns about the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The move is in accordance with Gov. Ned Lamont's recommendation that all such large gatherings be postponed.

School administrators are also monitoring the situation and planning for the potential future closure of schools.

The town released the following statement:

Dear Waterford Families and Staff,

The Town remains in daily contact with many local, state and federal agencies to be sure we are informed and in alignment with the latest guidance on COVID-19. These agencies include the Ledge Light Health District, the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management, the Connecticut Department of Public Health, Governor Lamont’s Office and the Department of Education.

Our primary focus at this time is the safety of all Waterford residents. Due to the increasing concerns from the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) our schools and town facilities will be taking additional steps to help prevent the spread of the disease and to keep our community healthy.
Effective immediately, in accordance with recommendation from Governor Ned Lamont’s office and in alignment with the Department of Public Health and Ledge Light Health District the following precautions are now in place:

“All non-essential meetings and ancillary gatherings of 100 people or more will be restructured, cancelled or postponed through April 30, 2020.”

This would include concerts, luncheons, community events and local athletic activities. We are monitoring all such situations in town and adjusting or cancelling plans as needed.

Regarding the 41st Annual Neil Hoelk basketball tournament this weekend, the tournament, unfortunately, has been cancelled.

We continue to work with Ledge Light Health District and the Department of Public Health to make decisions in the best interest of our community. I understand the disappointment this brings to our athletes and families, who were anticipating athletic competition and fund-raising events. After conversing with public health officials, it is clear we must take necessary steps to ensure the safety of our athletes, staff and families and we will be following this official guidance until further notice.

Tom Giard, the Superintendent of Schools, is monitoring this virus closely and planning for the possibility of a future closing of schools, if things get worse across the state or in our region. It is the Superintendent’s recommendation that parents begin to make back-up plans for childcare in the event of lengthy district closure.

Waterford students and families will be receiving a familiar letter to this post focused on education, from the Superintendent.

What All Can Do To Assist:
· Wash hands thoroughly and often.
· Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
· Stay home when you are sick.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
· Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
· Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.

Please Communicate Health Concerns:
· If staff or students are experiencing illness symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath), please stay home and communicate these symptoms to your doctor/pediatrician and to the school nurse.
· If staff or students/families are traveling out of the state or country over the next 7 weeks, please communicate this information to respective school leaders.
· If you have any questions regarding COVID-19, please utilize the attached hotline number.

The Superintendent of Schools and I will do our best to keep you informed, as we move forward. It is our hope that COVID-19 is contained across our country and state and that we will not require additional measures due to further outbreak. Please continue to monitor Ledge Light Health District website for all local and CDC updates:
www.llhd.org

If you have any concerns, please contact the First Selectman’s office at 860-444-5834 or email at firstsel@waterfordct.org