By Michael P. Walsh
Special to the Voice
In accordance with state and local guidelines, City Hall reopened to the public with restrictions Aug. 5.
Mayor Nancy R. Rossi said the phased reopening of City Hall allows staff to service residents inside the building for the first time since March 16, when City Hall was closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
For phase one of the reopening plan, City Hall is open for limited business Monday through Thursday by appointment only and restricted to the first floor, Rossi said.
Residents can make an appointment for the Building Department, assessor’s office, tax office and city clerk’s office from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. by contacting the department at https://www.cityofwesthaven.com/directory.aspx. Appointments are limited.
To enter City Hall, visitors must use the west entrance on the Savin Avenue side of the building. Visitors must wear face masks, show identification and pass a temperature check before entering, Health Director Maureen B. Lillis said.
Visitors must sign in with staff, noting the time and location of the appointment, and sign out when business is done. They must also use the hand sanitizer station before going to the appointment, Lillis said.
Visitors must maintain social distancing, including staying 6 feet away from others, and stand behind the protective barrier, Lillis said.
Although City Hall has partially reopened, the Chamber of Commerce and Department of Motor Vehicles Express offices will remain closed until further notice, city officials said.
Residents are encouraged to continue using online payments and the drop box at the Main Street entrance of City Hall.
Lillis said City Hall will remain closed on Friday until further notice to allow a deeper cleaning of the building.
City employees are working extended hours Monday through Thursday, Rossi said. Employees are available by phone and email at https://www.cityofwesthaven.com/directory.aspx.