The Carroll County Board of Commissioners last week announced a measured and cautious plan to begin allowing public access to county facilities.
Some county facilities are now open for in-person meetings by appointment only. Visitors and staff are required to follow safety guidelines to ensure physical distancing and other protections.
New guidelines include:
- Only customers with appointments will enter the building. Unless a customer requires assistance, other individuals should please wait outside.
- Face coverings are required for customers to gain entry; staff and visitors must continue to wear face coverings during appointments and while in public areas.
- Customers should arrive 5 to 10 minutes early for appointments to allow for security protocols.
- Brief screenings, which may include a temperature check and survey questions, will occur at the entrance to buildings.
- Visitors will be escorted to and from the lobby and offices.
According to a County press release:
Anyone wishing to make an appointment should contact the individual department or the main county office at 410-386-2400. A directory of departments with phone numbers is available on the county website.
Each department will explain the appointment process and availability for their area and schedule an acceptable time. Due to the nature of the work, the Collections Office is unable to accept appointments.
The Collections Office will continue current operations with citizens paying bills on-line, via mail, or dropping their payments in the drop box and staff mailing receipts.
Visitors are strongly advised to continue physical distancing and remain at home as much as possible. Determine if business may be satisfied with a phone call and only schedule appointments as necessary.
The county is planning a gradual return to work and normal facility access over the days, weeks and potentially months ahead. This will be done in the most effective, efficient, and risk-adverse method possible to balance operations while prioritizing the health and safety of all staff and customers.
County decisions and actions for the future will continue to follow the lead of the state leadership as well as state and local health officials. Protective actions such as physical distancing, frequent hand washing, facility sanitation and encouraging teleworking when possible will be required.
