Earlier this week the Wisconsin Supreme Court overturned Safer at Home Emergency Order #28, rendering the terms of that Order invalid and unenforceable.  On May 14, 2020, Columbia County indicated that they will not be issuing any local orders similar to Safer at Home Emergency Order #28. 

In the absence of any public health orders related to the pandemic, the City of Columbus is working to safely re-open public spaces and facilities.  This is what we can share at this point:

• City Hall and other City offices continue to work, but are closed to walk-in customers.  We anticipate re-opening these offices on Tuesday, May 26, 2020, with additional protections in place.  Safety measures may include increased PPE availability for staff interacting with customers, additional sanitation measures, and reducing the amount of people in any area at one time by encouraging social distancing.
• The Senior Center is developing a re-opening and operational plan to present to the City Council for consideration.
• The Columbus Area Aquatic Center is developing a re-opening and operational plan to present to the City Council for consideration.
• Fireman’s Park Pavilion has some minor construction work that was halted mid-project by the pandemic, and will remain closed for reservations until the project can be completed.
• City parks and playgrounds are open.  We remind everyone using these areas that they are open spaces, and not cleaned or sanitized regularly.
• Most baseball fields are open for use, although there are select fields that will remain closed while maintenance projects are completed.  Closed fields will be clearly marked. 
• The Columbus Public Library Board will be making a determination on how and when they will re-open, and you can find additional information on their website or Facebook page. 

We will continue to monitor the situation, and will evaluate our operations as conditions change throughout this pandemic.  We encourage every business and organization to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing, cleaning, and disinfecting whenever possible.  Businesses with specific questions or concerns about liability related to their operations during this pandemic should check with their legal counsel. 

The City of Columbus would like to repeat the guidance offered by Columbia County, encouraging all residents to continue to follow good public health practices, including:

• Maintain at least 6 feet between yourself and others;

• Do not congregate in groups larger than 10 people without physical distancing between groups;

• Wash your hands frequently;

• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

• If you are considered high risk due to age or health condition continue to remain safer at home and take precautions – only going out for essential reasons and working from home as much as possible.

Based on the history of this pandemic, its uncertain trajectory, and the likelihood of additional emergency orders or legislation, we anticipate our operations will need to change over time as the circumstances change.  Please monitor our website and Facebook page for additional updates in the future.  If you have any questions, please contact City Hall, (920) 623-5900.

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