Covington officials continue to enact measures to reduce the risk of employee exposure to the COVID-19 virus.
City Manager Krystal Onaitis said that since the onset of the pandemic in March, local governments have been operating under COVID-19 workplace standards established by the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.
“Those regulations mandate the city assess its work spaces for hazards and job tasks that could potentially expose employees to the virus, including evaluating city office spaces to ensure proper social distancing between the public and employees. The health and welfare of city staff and residents is of the utmost concern for city leaders at this critical time,” Onaitis said.
Due to the size of office space, the city has determined that employee occupancy be limited to one employee per department, per day.
That move is designed to reduce the risk of exposing employees to the virus.
“Currently, employees are continuing their duties remotely as best as possible and will continue to do so until COVID-19 numbers decrease and we’re able to safely allow them to return to their city offices,” the city manager said.
She said plans are also under way to use federal CARES Act funds to retrofit the first floor of city hall to improve public walk-in services.
Payments for utilities and taxes continue to be accepted by phone. Payments may also be placed in a drop-off box located near the side entrance to city hall. Citizens can also schedule appointments with various apartments.
For more information, contact the city manager’s office at 965-6300.
Meanwhile, city officials are extending their appreciation to residents and businesses for their patience as the city continues to “maintain a sense of normalcy” in its operations during the pandemic.
“We understand that these guidelines have put a strain on all city services, and we appreciate your patience as we’ve attempted to meet state regulations, while — at the same time — provide the high level of service to our residents and businesses as they have come to enjoy in the past,” Onaitis concluded.
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The Virginian Review has been serving Covington, Clifton Forge, Alleghany County and Bath County since 1914.
