Town Of Smithtown Declares State Of Emergency Over Coronavirus

SMITHTOWN, NY — The Town of Smithtown declared a state of emergency in an effort to operate a functional government, based on New York State’s executive orders to limit the workforce to only essential employees, for the next two weeks due to the new coronavirus, the office of Supervisor Edward Wehrheim announced Wednesday evening. Testing for COVID-19 was also announced.

The "drive-through" coronavirus testing center is set up at Stony Brook University. Those exhibiting symptoms can call the hotline to be triaged by a nurse and set up an appointment. Residents can make appointments by calling: 1-888-364-3065.

As of Wednesday evening, there are three confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Town of Smithtown. Suffolk County Health experts said as of now, each confirmed coronavirus case had been contracted through community spread. As such, parades, events and races have been postponed and it is recommended that residents holding large events (over 50 people) consider rescheduling to a later date. The CDC recommends that in-person events that consist of 50 people or more over the next eight weeks be canceled or postponed.

"The declaration of a state of emergency is not intended to cause more upset or panic," Wehrheim stated. "This is merely a tool for the town to acquire specific resources to function as effectively as possible for every resident who needs us, all while keeping our employees safe and restricting the potential for this virus to spread in our community. While these are unprecedented times, please know that we have been working in unity with every agency, school district, local businesses, food pantry, nursing home and hospital to ensure the people of Smithtown are kept safe. If you have questions, need assistance or require a service; rest assured the town and our dedicated staff remains ready and eager to serve you."

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For those having a medical emergency, call 911. For those who believe they were exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19, call your doctor immediately and be vigilant in limiting your exposure to others, the Town said. It is vital for all residents to continue washing and sanitizing hands frequently.

As a method of combating the virus, the Town has limited public access to various departments and buildings. Each department arranged for online submissions, sanitary drop off/pick up areas and secure payment options for residents and business owners. Additionally, cleaning crews are thoroughly sanitizing town buildings and grounds.

Most of the "non-essential" workforce, 75 percent, will have to work from home, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Thursday. Essential services include industries such as shipping, media, warehousing, grocery and food production, pharmacies, health care providers, utilities, banks and related financial institutions, as well as other industries critical to the supply chain.

An executive order by New York State required restaurants and bars cease in-dining services. The order states that restaurants and bars "shall only serve food or beverage for off-premises consumption" until further notice. The mandate also saw the closures of gyms, fitness centers, and movie theaters.

The Town of Smithtown will be closing the Senior Center for two weeks; which started Monday and goes through March 30 as a way of protecting the health and safety of those most vulnerable to COVID-19. Residents who come to the Senior Center for lunch and need these meals can make arrangements for meal delivery while the building is closed. The Meals on Wheels program will continue to operate to home-bound seniors. To arrange for meals to be delivered, contact the Senior Center at 631-360-7616.

The Town asked residents to not hoard groceries or supplies.

"Long lines at the grocery store or wholesale supply chains will only increase the risk of exposure to you and your family. Additionally, please remember there are many families who are in need of meals and supplies year round. Many of the local food banks, Long Island Cares and Island Harvest are out there on the front lines, ensuring no one is left hungry during this period of social distancing."

To Donate

• LI Cares
• Island Harvest
• Smithtown Food Pantry

The Town Board meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. March 19 was moved to 2 p.m. in the Victor T. Liss Board Room. The public portion of the Town Board meeting was suspended by the Town of Smithtown as a way to protect residents' health. Residents wishing to be heard on the record, should email: townclerk@smithtownny.gov before the meeting. All written public comments will be added to the record.

The Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on March 24 was postponed to sometime in April.

The Town asks that residents planning on coming to Town Hall or other official town buildings for permits, services or assistance, to call ahead or attempt to speak with department staff over the phone instead. Many Smithtown functions can be found or completed online at www.SmithtownNY.gov as opposed to in person.

The Smithtown Historical Society has canceled all activities and classes through March 31. All historic buildings will also be closed for cleaning. The office will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays, however, it is recommended that residents call or email first. You can email at info@smithtownhistorical.org, call at 631-265-6768 or fax to 631-979-4694.

All four Town of Smithtown school districts will be closed for two weeks, from March 16 through March 27, due to the executive order by Suffolk County. Parents should check each school district's website for information on online classes, spring recess and changes to the calendar.

• Commack School District
• Hauppauge School District
• Kings Park School District
• Smithtown School District

The next weeks away from school should not be viewed as a typical vacation, the district said. Families should consider restricting travel and avoiding large gatherings.