Town Manager Michael Borg announced that Town Hall would be reopening to the public Monday, July 27, with certain restrictions and new protocols in place due to the continued threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Borg stated that he worked with all department heads and unions representing the employees to develop a set of standards and protocols to protect individuals doing business at Town Hall and the staff members ready and willing to serve.
The reopening of Town Hall, following a shutdown in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions imposed by Gov. Baker, has been a phased approach, according to Borg. Town Hall employees were able to work remotely utilizing the town’s IT infrastructure and work on-site using a rotation schedule. This approach allowed departments to continue to deliver services and was extremely beneficial to the community. The town recently implemented an online permitting software product that allowed residents and businesses to apply for building permits, burn permits, and new and renewal dog licenses electronically.
Town Hall reopened to the public on a limited basis in early June by taking appointments only for those who could not do business online, over the phone, via email, or through regular mail. The last two months have shown that the majority of business with Town Hall does not require entry into the building; however, it’s time to take the next step to get closer to a normal routine.
In addition to opening the building to conduct routine business, as part of Borg’s “open door” policy, he will be available to meet with constituents Thursday evenings from 4-6 p.m. beginning Thursday, Aug. 6. Anyone wishing to meet with Borg to discuss items of interest to the community is welcome to stop by, but are encouraged to call the office at 508-699-0100 to schedule an appointment.
The following outlines the hours of operation for Town Hall and the protocols that are in place for reopening. Town Hall will be open to the public the following days and times:
- Monday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Tuesday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Wednesday: The building will closed to the public to allow for cleaning and sanitizing staff will be available for calls and emails
- Thursday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Friday 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Anyone needing to conduct business with a Town Department is encouraged to that business with the department online, via phone call, using email or through regular mail wherever possible.
If an in-person transaction is required, you are encouraged to make an appointment.
Those with appointments will be the priority at their allotted time over walk-ins.
Everyone entering Town Hall must adhere to the following new protocols.
If you are ill or have exposure to COVID-19, please refrain from entering the building
Masks must be worn properly (completely covering nose and mouth) at all times while in the building
The public may use restrooms on the main level only
Staircases are now directional and marked up and down; please use the stairs appropriately as indicated
Only one passenger at a time may use the elevator
Queue lines are in place with clearly marked spacing to provide proper social distancing
Please stay within the appropriate queue and adhere to social distancing guidelines
Employees will be required to properly wear masks at all times while interacting with the public
Employees will only handle cash and checks while wearing appropriate personal protection.
These new protocols are for the safety of those conducting business in the Town Hall and the employees. Please adhere to the rules, or staff may not be able to provide services.
