March 23, 2020
To All City Employees:
We are now entering our second week of City Hall being closed to the public. Many of you continue to telecommute, while some others are reporting to City Hall at various times. Thank you for everything you are doing for the residents and businesses in Norwalk.
The COVID-19 coronavirus situation is changing almost daily. Over several days, the number of positive coronavirus cases in Norwalk has significantly increased, from one on March 14 to 28 today. Unfortunately, two residents have also died from COVID-19. I have ordered the closure of Cranbury Park and public school properties to limit large groups congregating. The playgrounds, courts, and skate park at Calf Pasture Beach and Veteran’s Park have also been shut down. Things are much different today than they were less than two weeks ago.
What has become clear is that things are not going back to normal tomorrow, next week, or maybe even next month. City government is an essential function and cannot be completely shut down. My team and I are working on long-term contingency and staffing plans to ensure that critical services continue, while also providing necessary periods of relief for our employees. Your direct supervisors will be in touch with you regarding these plans later in the week.
I encourage you, whether you live in Norwalk or not, to consider ordering take-out this week. Small businesses and food service industries are hurting now, and could use our support. You can also purchase gift cards from your favorite local retailers to use when stores open once again. I also want you to know that you can find my daily Norwalk-specific updates on COVID-19 online at norwalkct.org/citynews.
Lastly, I want to thank each one of you. You have shown flexibility, understanding, and patience as we work through these unprecedented times. I have been in contact with area Mayors and First Selectman, and they look on with awe at what Norwalk is doing and able to achieve. Without you – the professional, dedicated, and talented staff – we’d never be able to navigate this situation. Norwalk is far ahead in its response plans and delivery of services, and that is a result of our great team.
Please continue to take care of yourselves, family, and friends. The health and safety of our loved ones must always be our top priority. We are all in this together. And we will get through this together. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to my office directly.
Keep up the great work.
Mayor Harry Rilling