MORE: Local events impacted by coronavirus (continually updating)

Bryan County has announced precautionary steps in response to health concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). In a press release Tuesday, officials said these decisions have been made in consultation with experts in public safety, health and emergency management, and will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary.

 To date, no employee or resident of Bryan County has tested positive for COVID-19 and the county has been undertaking additional deep cleaning at all county facilities and equipment and complying with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance.

Bryan County services are being maintained with modifications to ensure social distancing and to protect the safety and well-being of everybody. Regular updates will be shared via the website and social media.

Garbage and recycling services and the Bryan County Health Department are currently maintaining their regular services and hours. The county health department is anticipating a role in COVID-19 testing going forward. Bryan County Emergency Services are assessing 911 calls and responding appropriately with personnel provided with protective clothing and equipment to be utilized when responding to symptomatic patients.

Bryan County Recreation Department is cancelling all activities and closing all facilities with immediate effect. This cancellation includes, Baseball, Softball, Volleyball, Skate Nights, T-ball, Coach Pitch, Mighty Mite Kickers, Line Dancing, Pickle Ball, Open Gym, Rentals and SNAP. Parks will be open for walking and family activities which offer social distancing.

Bryan County Recreation Department Director Dr. Samose Mays says, “We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. This decision was made after much thought and consideration for the

safety of our community and participants. We love our community and want our citizens to remain healthy and safe!”

These services are subject to the following modifications with increased sanitation for personnel, facilities and equipment to minimize risk to employees and residents:

· Senior Citizen Centers are closed with immediate effect with meals being delivered to seniors by senior department staff, until further notice.

· Court systems and buildings are open to staff but closed to most visitors with scheduled hearings cancelled for 30 days. Phone lines are open and emergency issues such as guardianship issues, TPOs and domestic situations will be allowed in for service. Marriage licenses, disposition permits and registering death records are being issued by appointment, but the issuance of weapons carry permits are temporarily suspended.

· Applications for permits are available online and can be dropped off at county facilities to be processed.

· Early voting has been postponed and polling locations closed.

· Libraries are closed with fines for late returns suspended.

· Family Connections has closed their food and clothing bank, but phone lines are open 24/7 and emergency deliveries of food to those in need are being undertaken by senior staff.

Bryan County is committed to the wellbeing of every resident and does not take decisions lightly. The county is closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and continuing to consult with experts in public health and safety. Further adjustments to services will be made to ensure the safety of Bryan County’s staff and residents, while meeting essential needs.

For regular updates and more information about Bryan County, please visit www.bryancountyga.org or follow the county on their social media accounts, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.