ROCKINGHAM — Several municipalities and companies are limiting admittance to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Rockingham City Manager Monty Crump issued a memo Monday announcing that non-government employees are barred from entering city facilities unless there is an emergency or prior authorization is granted through online or phone communication.
“These actions are being taken to protect our citizens and employees during the virus pandemic in order to protect and ensure the viability of delivering essential public services in the City of Rockingham,” Crump said.
The prohibition starts at 8 a.m. Tuesday.
Utility, tax payments will only be taken at the drive-thru window, by phone — with credit card fees being waived — or by mail.
The city will also work with those who may suffer financial hardships due to pandemic-related lay-offs or cut hours, pending employer verification, on a case-by-case basis.
All customers of the City Planning & Building Inspection Department should contact staff by phone — 910-895-9088 or 910-895-9089 — for directions on how to conduct business, including permits, inspections and zoning, according to the memo.
“It is the intent of the City of Rockingham to maintain and continue to provide all essential city services during the COVID-19 Pandemic,” Crump concluded. “Every effort will be made to reduce the impact of COVID-19 on the delivery of essential serveries and to that end the City respectfully asks for your patience, understanding and cooperation.
“COVID-19 Pandemic is producing daily and fluid challenges for the entire country and rest assured that the City of Rockingham will make every effort to work through this time to ensure the safety and welfare of our community.”
The Richmond Observer has yet to hear from the city of Hamlet or the county administration regarding office restrictions.
Pee Dee Electric is also restricting walk-in traffic at its Rockingham and Wadesboro offices, which started at noon Monday.
The drive-thru will remain open, or customers can call 1-800-992-1626.
“Unlike larger utilities with millions of customers, we are local and owned by the members we serve,” reads a Facebook post. “As such, we can respond to issues with a more individualized approach and work with members on a case-by-case basis.
“For that reason, and because the financial stability of the cooperative is a consideration as well, we are not implementing a blanket policy for disconnecting service for nonpayment at this time. Still, we will work with our members individually to provide financial relief during this trying time.”
