Full Notification

*** Press Release ***
Charter Township of Washington Announces Operational Changes Due to Coronavirus
March 17, 2020
 
In order to slow the spread of the Coronavirus and Covid-19, the Charter Township of Washington has issued a declaration of a State of Emergency.  We will close our doors to the public beginning Tuesday March 17.  We will continue to provide essential services to customers by phone, online, email and regular mail.  However, there will be certain service changes.
The declaration of a State of Emergency follows those by the President, Governor and County Executive.  They highlight the seriousness of the need to avoid person to person contact in order to fight the spread of Coronavirus.  The Governor has banned gatherings over 50 people.  It is anticipated that the prohibition may be revised to be substantially lower.  The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is recommending social distancing and avoidance of person to person contact as a means of slowing the spread of the virus. 
These actions are prudent measures to slow the spread to avoid overwhelming the medical system by having too many patients requiring care at once.  These measures are not a cause for panic or hoarding.  Health experts have repeatedly stated that the majority of cases are mild.  Those who are elderly and have other health issues that weaken their overall state have more to be concerned about and should take extra precautions.  Each of us has frail people like that in our lives and we should do what we can to protect them by controlling our own surroundings.
In an effort to help “stretch out the curve” and slow the rate of spread so medical organizations can properly respond, we are temporarily closing all township buildings to public access.  This is for the protection of both our employees and residents.  We will continue to serve you via mail, phone, email, and other electronic means.  We will keep the public informed as to any change in status based on incoming information.  This unprecedented situation is very fluid. 
The following is a summary of the impact on services to our community:

1. Emergency – Washington Fire and Ambulance services and Sheriff service will continue as they are essential services.  Note that 911 dispatchers and paramedics may ask callers screening questions designed to properly prepare our team when they enter your home or business.  Protecting your safety is always our first objective.

 

2. Park and Recreation, Senior Center and exercise rooms in Washington Township facilities will be closed until further notice.  Parks will continue to be maintained and open to your enjoyment.  Any questions should be addressed to 586-752-6543.

 

3. Senior transportation services will be limited to essential trips until April 6^th.  Any questions should be addressed to 586-752-9010.

 

4. Water and Sewer crews will continue to operate to ensure quality, clean water is provided.  However, non-essential appointments will cease.  No in-house visits will be authorized except for true emergencies.  You can still reach us at 586-786-0010 and follow the prompts.

 

5. Township administrative offices such as Clerk, Accounting, Planning and Economic Development, Treasury, Assessing and others will be closed to the public.  However, staff will be available to answer questions and address your needs via email and phone.  Call our main number at 586-786-0010 and follow the prompts for the appropriate department.  Note that the Treasurer’s office will accept payments online (www.WASHINGTONTOWNSHIP.ORG), via processing center, and via drop box at the front of the building. 

 

6. Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals meetings for April will be cancelled.  The March 18^th board meeting has been cancelled.

 

7. The Building Inspection Office and Ordinance Enforcement Office will be closed to the public other than very limited critical appointments by appointment only.  While some inspections will continue, no inspections will be performed in occupied structures except essential safety items at the discretion of the Building Official.  It is our intent to limit face to face interactions.  Contact the department regarding your questions and needs at 586-786-0010 and follow the prompts.

We recognize that these measures will create inconvenience for our customers.  These are necessary steps to do our part to protect YOUR FAMILY from the spread of this virus.  You can continue to do YOUR part in slowing the spread of this virus by taking the following steps:
 

1. Please continue to limit your own social contact
2. Wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds at a time,
3. Stay home from work and out of the public if you show symptoms.
4. Cough into a tissue or the bend of your arm.
5. Avoid large gatherings.  Religious organizations should consider video services.
6. Do not hoard or overreact.  It is unnecessary and places your neighbors in an at risk position. Further, it prevents the most vulnerable from accessing the things they need to endure.
7. Check in on elderly and frail neighbors.
8. Do not share questionable sources of information on social media that create unnecessary alarm.  The Centers for Disease Control has reliable information at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html

The Macomb County Health Department also has reliable information at https://health.macombgov.org/Health-Services-DiseaseServices
 
We live in a beautiful community.  As the weather allows, this is an excellent time to enjoy the metro park and trails and spend time with your family.
We will keep you informed of any changes.  You can always check our website for more information at WWW.WASHINGTONTOWNSHIP.ORG