City of Shawano buildings to remain closed

City of Shawano municipal buildings will remain closed due to the “continued surge in positive cases in our community,” city officials said in a press release on Nov. 9.

“Currently, we intend to reopen our facilities to the public on Monday, December 7, 2020, pending further review of COVID-19 case numbers,” the release from Ed Whealon, mayor, said.

The closed buildings include city hall, police department lobby, recreation center, civic center, Shawano Municipal Utilities and public works offices.

All city public meetings will be held via Zoom, with access information located on the agendas of each meeting. Meeting agenda information can be found on the city’s website, www.cityofshawano.com.

The surge in local COVID-19 cases “places an increased risk on our staff, residents, and visitors” and the city made the decision “out of respect for the health and safety of our employees and the community,” the release said.

The city said it has been monitoring updates from the Centers for Disease Control, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, and the Shawano-Menominee Health Department regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) in supporting its decision.

“It is our intention to maintain all essential/critical city functions with our employees continuing in their normal capacity, the city added.

“Residents will see no change in the level of services provided including public safety, curbside services, etc. The landfill will remain open to the public during this time, with the continued requirement of no cash payments,” the release said.

The senior meal program at the civic center will continue to deliver meals to people already on its schedule. Meals will also be available for pick up.

Payments to the city or Shawano Municipal Utility can be done by mail, by putting in the drop boxes located outside the facilities, or by using online payment portals on the city’s website. Shawano-Bonduel Municipal Court payments can also be made via the city hall drop box or the online payment option.

For other transactions including pet licensing, taxi tickets or questions, contact city hall at 715-526-6138. Press the doorbell located near the front door of city hall if a visit for a building permit or other situation that cannot be handled by phone or email. Staff will then come outside and assist.

As of Nov. 9, Shawano-Menominee County health officials reported a total of 3,023 cases with 38 deaths from COVID-19 in the county; Menominee County reported 372 cases with one death.