HealthSuffolk County NewsTown Hall

COVID-19 ALERTS: Smithtown Information

By 
March 19, 2020
4 mins read

New Testing, Important Information | Town-wide Online Forms/Payments and Building Drop Off Service

The Town of Smithtown has declared a state of emergency in an effort to operate a functional government, based on New York State’s executive orders to limit our workforce to only essential employees, for the next two weeks. As such, the town has taken measures to limit public access to various departments, and buildings. Each department has made arrangements for online submissions, sanitary drop off/pick up areas and secure payment options for residents and business owners. Additionally, cleaning crews are thoroughly sanitizing town buildings and grounds.

We have listed important information regarding how to proceed if you are sick, School closures, meeting details and information on conducting business safely for your reference. The town will update the public as information changes on a regular basis. 

“The declaration of a State of Emergency is not intended to cause more upset or panic. This is merely a tool for the town to acquire specific resources to function as effectively as possible for every resident who needs us, all while keeping our employees safe and restricting the potential for this virus to spread in our community. While these are unprecedented times, please know that we have been working in unity with every agency, school district, local businesses, food pantry, nursing home and hospital to ensure the people of Smithtown are kept safe. If you have questions, need assistance or require a service; rest assured the town and our dedicated staff remains ready and eager to serve you.” –  Supervisor Ed Wehrheim

COVID-19: New information 

Testing Site: The “drive-through” novel coronavirus testing center has been set up at Stony Brook University. If you are exhibiting symptoms you can call the hotline to be triaged by a nurse and set up an appointment. Residents can make appointments by calling: 1-888-364-3065 

Currently, there are three confirmed Coronavirus cases in the Town of Smithtown. Suffolk County Health experts have said that as of present, each confirmed COVID-19 case had been contracted through community spread. As such, parades, events and races have been postponed and it is recommended that residents holding large events (over 50 people) consider rescheduling to a later date. The CDC recommends that in-person events that consist of 50 people or more over the next 8 weeks be canceled or postponed. 

Executive Order: New York State executive order requires that restaurants and bars cease in-dining services. The order states that restaurants and bars “shall only serve food or beverage for off-premises consumption” until further notice. Additionally the order requires the closing of gyms, fitness centers, and movie theaters.

Town Closures: 

Smithtown Senior Center: To protect the health and safety of those most vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19, the Town of Smithtown will be closing the Senior Center for two weeks starting Monday, March 16th through March 30th, 2020. Residents who come to the Senior Center for lunch and require meals can make arrangements for meal delivery during the building closure. The Meals on Wheels program will continue to operate to homebound seniors.

Town Meeting Changes/Postonments: 

  • The Town Board meeting scheduled for March 19th, 2020 at 7PM has been moved to 2 PM in the Victor T. Liss Board Room. The town of Smithtown will suspend the public portion of this Town Board meeting. Residents wishing to be heard on the record should email townclerk@smithtownny.gov prior to the meeting time. All written public comments will be added to the record. Residents wishing to watch Town meetings can do so via live stream by logging on to www.SmithtownNY.gov. 
  • Board of Zoning Appeals: The meeting on March 24th has been postponed until a later date in April.
  • Planning Board: The meeting on March 18th has been postponed until a later date in April.

LIMITING ACCESS:  It is recommended that residents wishing to visit Town Hall or other official town buildings for permits, services or assistance, please call ahead or attempt to speak with department staff over the phone if possible. Many Smithtown functions can be found and completed online at www.SmithtownNY.gov as opposed to in person. For assistance with online forms, please call (631) 360-7512.

Parks: In an effort to further prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, some park playgrounds will remain closed. Parks department teams will reassess next week, based on personnel and the ability to maintain optimal cleaning of recreational equipment.

Smithtown Historical Society Hours: The Smithtown Historical Society has cancelled all activities and classes through March 31st, 2020. Additionally all historic buildings will be closed for cleaning. The office will be open from 9AM-1PM on weekdays, however it is recommended that residents call or email first. Email:  info@smithtownhistorical.org  Phone: 631.265.6768 Fax: 631.979.4694

School Districts: All Four School Districts have enacted a mandatory two week closure by executive order from Monday, March 16th, through Friday, March 27th, 2020. The School Districts will continue to monitor the public health situation and reevaluate the rapidly evolving situation on a daily basis. Parents should check each school district’s website for information on online classes, Spring recess and changes to the calendar. 

The next weeks away from school should not be viewed as a typical vacation. Families should consider restricting travel and avoiding large gatherings.  

PLEASE DO NOT HOARD GROCERIES OR SUPPLIES: Long lines at the grocery store or wholesale supply chains will only increase the risk of exposure to you and your family. Additionally, please remember there are many families who are in need of meals and supplies year round. Many of the local food banks, Long Island Cares and Island Harvest are out there on the front lines, ensuring no one is left hungry during this period of social distancing. 

To Donate: 

For up to the minute announcements on cancellations, please download the Town of Smithtown Mobile App.

If you are having a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1. If you believe you were exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19, call your doctor immediately and be vigilant in limiting your exposure to others. It is vital for all residents to continue washing and sanitizing hands frequently. While we understand that residents may be temporarily inconvenienced by these changes, our top priority is ensuring that each member of this community remains safe and healthy during this time.

Tags