Update on Rhinebeck Village COVID19 Containment Plans
Update on Rhinebeck Village COVID19 Containment Plans March 16. 2020 I know many of you are already taking steps to prevent the spread of COVID19 in our community. Staying apart is the most important thing we can do. As of today, New York State along with Connecticut and New Jersey have jointly announced new measures to reduce the strain on our health care system and save lives. The Village Election which was scheduled for this Wednesday, will be postponed until April 28th, 2020. That is the same day as the NYS Primary. As of now:
● All bars, gyms, and theaters are closed.
● Restaurants are limited to curb-side pick up, take-out and delivery service only.
● All private businesses are being urged to have employees work from home.
● Public gatherings of more than 20 people should be cancelled.
● Rhinebeck Schools remain closed from March 16th through March 27th
● Pharmacies, grocery stores, medical facilities, banks and gas stations will remain open .
I have spoken to all our local businesses affected by this and they are complying with these orders. On behalf of everyone, I want to thank them all and their employees for their cooperation and help during this time. Rhinebeck Police as well as our code enforcement officer will enforce the new regulations. Here at Village Hall, we are reducing our staffing by 50%, having clerks work on rotation, and putting other staff on paid leave. We have cancelled or postponed all non-essential meetings. If you need an appointment, you can conduct it by phone, and use our Drop Box at the door to pay bills etc. I speak regularly with officials from Dutchess County, New York State, as well as Northern Dutchess Hospital. Everyone is working together to “flatten the curve” of new cases, so as not to overwhelm our health care services. As you know, the virus is most dangerous to the immune compromised and the elderly. When we stay home, wash our hands, and keep our distance from others, we are being good neighbors. There are some people who are isolated or will be unable to pay bills in these times, we are working with Dutchess County on a plan to help those individuals. You will be receiving regular updates on that and others as our containment plans adjust to facts on the ground.
Gary Bassett
Mayor Village of Rhinebeck
76 East Market St. Rhinebeck, NY 12572
845-876-7015