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Athens-Clarke County closes workstations, provides telecommuting


All Athens-Clarke County departments and offices will operate under a modified closed workstations model this week to continue minimizing interactions between employees and the public in an effort to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the community.

Most non-emergency government employees will not report to their offices and most ACC buildings will generally be closed to the public. Some buildings such as the Athens-Clarke County Courthouse will allow entry for certain essential judicial functions, while some departments will schedule appointments for essential activities while maintaining social distancing.

Many non-emergency staff will telecommute remotely during the week in order to answer questions and provide services remotely over the phone or online. Other staff will work in shifts on alternating days and maintain social distancing.

In most offices, residents will be able to speak with staff directly even though offices are closed.

The county government will continue to provide essential services such as public safety, emergency response, certain judicial functions, trash collection, and water and sewer services. Most services and programs are curtailed or suspended temporarily until emergency and public health officials provide guidance as to appropriate times to restore them.

Transit services will be provided on a limited service weekend schedule from approximately 7:30 a.m. until 9:45 p.m. daily. Lift Demand Response services will operate only for medically essential needs. Transit services will be fare free with a one round trip rule and have several social distancing restrictions in place. Riders under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

“We have to provide vital services to the community now and also ensure that we have continuity of operations weeks and months down the road,” County Manager Manager Blaine Williams said. “Using technology, our departments have looked for ways to continue as much service delivery as possible for residents while safeguarding the health of our workforce and limit the risk of transmission."

Residents are encouraged to call departments and offices - a list of phone numbers is available through www.accgov.com/directory - or visit department webpages at www.accgov.com instead of visiting ACCGov offices to see if services or information will be unavailable and which services will be provided online and over the phone. Information on the county's COVID-19 responses and resources will continue to be provided through www.accgov.com/coronavirus, social media, and a subscribeable email and text newsletter available at Coronavirus COVID-19 Updates

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