Coronavirus Sparks State Of Emergency In Southampton Town

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — To prevent the spread of the coronavirus, a state of emergency has been declared in Southampton Town.

To date, no coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Southampton.

Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman signed an emergency order to close most town buildings, administrative offices and community centers to the public beginning Tuesday, March 17, through March 31.

Town employees will continue to work within the buildings on a limited basis to perform governmental services; some employees will work from home, a release from Schneiderman's office said.

A drop box will be set up at the main entrance of Town Hall on Hampton Road for receipt of documents, including tax payments. The emergency order will allow the supervisor to take all necessary actions to protect public health and safety.

The emergency order also cancels all board meetings, except for the town board, which will meet to conduct town business. All public hearings will be postponed for the emergency period and new dates will be announced when available. The public will be able to watch town board meetings live on Channel 22 and can submit comments through the town clerk’s office by emailing townclerk@southamptontownny.gov .

All of the town's special programs are canceled during the state of emergency, including youth recreation and senior activities, the release said.

Food delivery will continue for seniors participating in the nutrition program. In addition, the senior transportation program will continue— as well as the South Fork Commuter Connection shuttle bus service. The adult day care program, however, will be suspended for the emergency period. Transfer stations will continue to operate and parks will remain open to the public. The supervisor may extend the order if needed.

Although no coronavirus confirmations have been announced in Southampton Town the measures are being taken in an "abundance of caution" to reduce the spread of the virus, allowing hospitals and other healthcare providers more time to prepare for the increase in needed medical services, Schneiderman said.

Channel 22, or SEA-TV, will be used to provide live updates and to disseminate important information during the state of emergency; the town website will also be used to share news.

All town board members have pledged their full cooperation in assisting in any way necessary to address the issues related to the coronavirus pandemic, Schneiderman said.

An emergency department head meeting was held at Town Hall Monday morning, during which Schneiderman asked department heads for their cooperation and assistance. The town will continue to provide needed services while minimizing public interactions.

“We are taking this public health crisis seriously and doing our part to reduce social interactions while maintaining important governmental services,” said Schneiderman.“We want to protect vulnerable individuals and allow our healthcare system time to catch up with the growing need for testing and treatment.”

Officials are following all Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines and working closely with state and county health departments, Schneiderman said.