Port Washington North Mayor Provides Coronavirus Update

PORT WASHINGTON NORTH, NY—Port Washington North Mayor Bob Weitzner recently addressed several issues raised by residents concerning the coronavirus pandemic and the shelter-in-place directive issued by Gov. Andrew Cuomo:

1. Social Distancing Reminder- The governor has mandated that residents shelter-in-place and not leave their homes unless absolutely necessary. According to the mayor, use common sense. Remember to stay at least six feet away from other people, including during outdoor recreation. Do not congregate in large crowds. Practice social distancing when in grocery stores or pharmacies. Social distancing is the only way to make a difference to stop the spread of the coronavirus to help flatten out the curve and keep the village safe, the mayor said.
2. Safety in Our Streets- With so many people trying to enjoy the outdoors during this time, the village's streets are crowded with bikers, runners, dog walkers, etc. The mayor reminds people to drive slowly and be cautious and considerate of each other.
3. Construction and Building Permits- The village has stopped issuing new building permits until further notice. The building department, as well as village hall, are closed to the public. Furthermore, under the Governor’s directive, no contractors should be working unless it is for safety reasons. Residents are asked to do their part in adhering to this policy and keep contractors off site unless it is absolutely necessary.
4. Landscapers and the Use of Leaf Blowers- While the governor has included landscape maintenance as an essential function, the mayor is asking residents to reach out to their landscapers and, at the very least, discourage the use of leaf blowers until at least May 1. This will allow for decreased noise pollution and also relieve some concerns during this emergency, the mayor said.
5. Keep Our Streets Clean and Safe- According to the mayor, the village has seen more than its share of discarded masks and surgical gloves littering the streets. Please do you best to keep your property clean and safe, the mayor warned. Dispose of all refuse, including protective masks, gloves, and dog waste bags, in proper receptacles.
6. Village Election and Annual Meeting Update- The governor has declared that all postponed village elections will rescheduled until at least June 1, 2020. Current trustee positions will be held over until a new election takes place. Port North’s annual budget public hearing and annual meeting is still scheduled for April 22 and will be held via a conference call which will be made open to the public. All other public hearings have been adjourned until May 27, 2020. Visit the village’s website for more information. www.portwashingtonnorth.org.
7. Are your neighbors OK?- While social distancing is encouraged, the mayor is also encouraging residents to check in on any neighbors who they believe may be vulnerable or are not receiving notifications and updates. If you are going shopping, ask a neighbor if they need anything that you can pick up for them, the mayor suggested.
8. Small Business Owner Relief- "We received some valuable information from Town Supervisor Bosworth regarding relief for small businesses in North Hempstead," Mayor Weitzner said. "I hope this can be of some assistance to any residents in need. Please see the attached Small Business Relief Resources."
9. TONH/Solid Waste Mgmt. Authority Sunday Drop Off -The Town of North Hempstead will be closing the Sunday Residential Drop Off at the North Hempstead Transfer Station through April 26.

Small Business Relief Resources:

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