County Government Buildings to Close to Public, Nonessential Staff on Friday
March 19, 2020
Core operations such as trash collection, EMS won’t be affected
Access to Richland County Government facilities will be restricted to essential personnel beginning Friday, March 20, in an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, or coronavirus.
This policy comes after state health officials confirmed several cases of the contagious respiratory disease in the County.
Core County operations, such as trash collection and emergency medical services, will not be affected as Richland County decentralizes its staffing through telework and a reduced number of on-site employees.
Until further notice, County offices will close to the public and nonessential staff in the interest of protecting employees and residents. Residents and business owners are reminded that many services and payments are accessible online through the County’s website at richlandcountysc.gov.
“The main thing for Richland County residents to know is that although offices are closing, Richland County Government is still open for business,” said County Administrator Leonardo Brown. “We are here to serve the public, and that includes providing services while doing all we can to stop the spread of this virus.”
Any member of staff, whether deemed essential or nonessential, who has the ability to work remotely will be required to do so. Employees will continue to receive their normal salaries through this period of social distancing.
Security staff from the Richland County Sheriff’s Department will be on-site at the County Administration Building at 2020 Hampton St. and other County facilities to monitor access to the buildings.
Because of the increased prevalence of COVID-19 in the community, County Administration has elevated the County’s operational status to Phase V of its Infectious Disease and Pandemic Action Plan.
The plan, a living document authored by County Administration, will be continually updated as staff becomes aware of actions necessary to mitigate the effects of widespread, infectious diseases.
The public is advised that scheduled County programs and activities will be canceled or postponed until further notice. Residents are urged to follow the County’s social media platforms and regularly check the County website for updates.
