Brookhaven extends state of emergency

Restaurants and bars remain closed to dine-in service, gatherings more than 10 prohibited, shelter-in-place ordered to prevent spread of COVID-19

Brookhaven, GA, March 24, 2020 – During its regular business meeting on March 24, the Brookhaven City Council extended and clarified the emergency declaration and suspension of dine-in service for all Brookhaven restaurants and alcohol-serving establishments until April 15.

“Brookhaven was the first city to declare a state of emergency and take action to prevent the spread of this highly contagious virus. Now that other governments have stepped up and enacted measures to promote responsible social distancing, our extension and clarifying language keeps us all on the same page as we collectively fight to contain the spread of Coronavirus,” said Mayor John Ernst.

While restaurant dine-in and counter services are suspended until April 15, delivery and takeout services are still allowed by establishments which are properly permitted and offer those services. In addition to food and beverage sales, any gathering of 10 or more persons is prohibited, whether or not food or beverages are sold.

In addition, all Brookhaven residents are instructed and directed to remain at home unless engaged in essential services, performing essential government services, or to operate essential businesses.  These functions are itemized in the declaration, but generally allow for any daily task necessary to maintain health and well-being, including getting food and medical supplies, and taking walks or hikes as long as six-foot social distancing is exercised.

In addition, Brookhaven City Hall, and Parks & Recreation facilities and playground equipment structures located within parks are also closed to the general public through April 15.

“Brookhaven’s Public Works projects have been able to stay on schedule during the administrative closures, including the dredging at Murphy Candler Lake.  We will utilize the time between now and April 15 to begin returning to normal operations on a limited basis in other departments as well,” said City Manager Christian Sigman.  “We are looking at a variety of options, to ensure we are serving the public while simultaneously protecting the health and well-being of employees and the general public.”

The City of Brookhaven has compiled information as it pertains to public health guidelines from the Governor’s Office, Board of Health, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and government response. It can be found at www.BrookhavenGA.gov/COVID19.

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