JAMES CITY COUNTY, Va. — Members of the James City County Board of Supervisors said they would meet Tuesday to discuss COVID-19. Topics on the agenda included confirming the declaration of local emergency that came on March 13, updates on coronavirus conditions, and consideration of future steps the county could take to address the situation.
At least one of the two people who died in Virginia as of March 16 lived in James City County. Health officials reported his death on March 14. They reported the second death Monday, but they didn't specify where in the Peninsula Health District the second man lived.
The board said the meeting would air live on the county's information channel (Channel 48 on cable) and would stream on James City County's YouTube channel. There was no public comment built into the special meeting which is why board members encouraged people to watch on television or online.
James City County established a hotline for people who live in the county so that they could stay updated on developments regarding coronavirus. That number is 757.564.2140.
In a news release, the county also provided the following information:
Social Services
The County’s Department of Social Services is officially closed to the public through March 29. All essential services remain available. Citizens may reach the agency by calling the main office number at 757-259-3100. Citizens may use the agency drop box located in the parking lot to leave paperwork or applications, 5249 Olde Towne Road. Citizens may apply for Benefit Programs by calling 855-635-4370 or online at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov. If citizens have additional questions regarding Benefit Programs, they can call 757-259-3131 during the hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. If citizens have additional needs that need to be addressed, they can call 757-259-3115 during the hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. If you need immediate assistance from the Housing Office please call 757-259-5340.
Restaurants
Based on guidance from Governor Northam, James City County strongly encourages our restaurant community to temporarily close in-restaurant dining and bar areas. We encourage those establishments to continue to serve our community through take-out and delivery options. We understand the economic pressure this puts on the community. However, during this highly unusual public health emergency, we have an imperative to do everything we can to try to lessen the impact of the Coronavirus on our community and mitigate the long-term consequences, and we believe this step will help.
County Offices
As a reminder, all James City County offices, facilities, playgrounds, recreation centers and libraries are closed to the public through Sunday, March 29. The intent of this action is to try to slow the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. During this closure, citizens are encouraged to use online resources such as ePayment through the County’s website, https://jamescitycountyva.gov. Essential County services to the public will continue. County Convenience Centers and curbside recycling services will continue normal operating hours.
Previously Shared Information
We urge citizens to avoid social gatherings. By practicing social distancing, you can help slow the spread of this disease and reduce the strain on our medical facilities. However, even as we encourage social distancing, we do not want citizens to neglect critical needs like grocery shopping, fueling your vehicle and other daily tasks. We simply encourage everyone to do their part by practicing basic health precautions, such as cleaning hands frequently and sanitizing surfaces to limit disease transmission.
The Peninsula Health District has set up a call center for questions about the Coronavirus at 757-594-7069. The call center is available from 8 a.m.-6 p.m., seven days a week. For up-to-date information on numbers of cases and transmission, please visit the Virginia Department of Health’s web page at www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.
If you think you have been exposed to the coronavirus and develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider immediately.
To lower the risk of respiratory germ spread, including COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health encourages the following effective behaviors:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
Site Inspections
Stormwater and Resource Protection: Site Inspections. We are currently performing inspections. Staff will be maintaining a minimum separation of 6’ from anyone that may be on site. For more information call 757-253-6670.
Building Safety and Permits: Building Inspections. We are currently performing inspections. However, staff will be calling ahead to each job site before arriving to see if rescheduling the inspection is possible. If it is not possible to reschedule an inspection, staff will inquire to see if anyone on site has signs of respiratory illness. If so, staff will not conduct the inspection, but will reschedule the inspection for two weeks out. For more information call 757-253-6882.