St. Joseph City Manager John Hodgson is thanking residents for their understanding of how the city has had to change how it operates during the COVID-19 pandemic. During Monday night’s city commission meeting, he said while City Hall and city buildings are closed to the public, work is ongoing.
“Our principal focus is and will continue to be providing the essential services we need to protect our residents,” said Hodgson. “Our first responders are still out there, they’ll take public safety and fire calls and render aid. Our water plant operators, our water and sewer departments are providing these essential services, We’re continuing to pick up rubbish and recycling.”
He added city parks remain open, and the parking meters have been turned off for the foreseeable future at those parks.
“Not all the facilities are (open), though,” said Hodgson. “The restrooms aren’t open, our maintenance is reduced. We ask that folks please remain conscious of social distancing in our parks.”
Hodgson says one area where the city is still seeking guidance from the state is when it comes to city pickup of yard waste. He noted that wasn’t clear in Governor Whitmer’s executive order on Thursday, which expanded and extended the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order.
Monday’s meeting was the first to be held using the Zoom teleconferencing website by the city.
