Town of Fairfield News
5/20/2020 - 5.20 COVID-19 UPDATE
Dear Fairfielders,
I know many residents, myself included, are experiencing "Quarantine Fatigue". It has been a long few months for all of us. I am grateful for how everyone in our community has come together and sacrificed in an effort to protect everyone in our Town. On Sunday I joined local residents for their 10th food drive. This has been a huge boost to Operation Hope's food pantry that helps our neighbors in need. We also continue to receive donations to the COVID-19 Relief Fund.
Today is May 20th which begins Phase 1 of the State's reopening plan outlined by the Governor. We have worked directly with our business community to share and assist with the state's safety protocols. We ask that our residents who patronize our businesses to be respectful of those guidelines that are in place. For example, please wear a face covering and also keep a safe physical distance from those outside your immediate household.
On Friday, I will hold a live press conference at noon with Police Chief Chris Lyddy, Fire Chief Denis McCarthy, Health Director Sands Cleary to outline the updated protocols for town open spaces referenced below.
COVID-19 CASES LOCAL AND STATE:
The most recently published data shows Connecticut has 38,430 positive cases, 3,472 deaths, and 914 hospitalizations. Fairfield County has 14,522 confirmed cases and 1,160 deaths.
The Town of Fairfield has 531 residents who have tested positive for COVID-19 and a total of 99 of our residents have lost their lives. My prayers continue to be with those families who have lost a loved one during this very difficult time.
Of the 531 residents who have tested positive in Fairfield, 212 have reported that they have fully recovered. Charts and data on Fairfield cases including age, gender, nursing home statistics, testing samples and different trend lines can be found at fairfieldct.org/covid19data.
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REOPENING GUIDANCE:
Today, many businesses in town will reopen including retail stores and restaurants for outdoor dining. Some restaurants have acquired permits to expand their outdoor space or create new outdoor seating to comply with the State's directives. Customers are required to wear masks except when eating and reservations are preferred to avoid crowds gathering outside. Restaurants are encouraged to have social distancing markers to help customers remain 6' apart.
For more information click the buttons below. |
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Per the Governor's Executive Orders:
Gatherings: All social and recreational gatherings of more than 5 people are prohibited. Religious, spiritual, and worship gatherings of more than 50 are prohibited. This remains in effect until June 20, unless earlier modified.
Face Coverings: When in public and a six-foot distance is unavoidable, face coverings are required to be worn.
In advance of Memorial Day Weekend I wanted to outline new protocols from the Town of Fairfield effective May 23rd. Further detail and answers to resident's questions will be provided at Friday's press conference. |
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BEACHES: As of 5/23
- Life Guards will be on duty at all open beaches (10:00 am – 6:00 pm Weekends only until June 22)
- Residents will be permitted to sit on the beach with blankets and chairs. 15' must be maintained between groups
- When a six-foot distance is unavoidable, face coverings are required to be worn.
- No more than 5 in a group
- No grilling
- The concessions will be open
- While some garbage cans will be provided we encourage residents to "carry in, carry out"
Permit parking in the beach area is in effect. Beach parking remains at reduced capacity for 2020 resident beach sticker holders. View the details here. |
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ATHLETIC FIELDS: As of 5/23
- NO organized athletics/sports allowed.
- All playgrounds remain closed
- When a six-foot distance is unavoidable, face coverings are required to be worn.
- No more than 5 in a group
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The slides outlining current guidelines for public spaces are linked below or you can visit fairfieldrecreation.com.
RESOURCES:
I hope you will browse through various information and resources below that can be helpful to our residents and businesses to navigate challenges as a result of the pandemic.
I look forward to supporting our local businesses in this reopening and I hope we will all do so safely. We're in this together!
Sincerely,
Brenda L. Kupchick
First Selectwoman |
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BEACH STICKERS: Residents who previously had a beach sticker automatically have an online account, even if they always applied in person. Your user name and password can be provided by Park & Recreation. Email them here: recsupport@fairfieldct.org
If you purchased a beach sticker but haven't yet received it, we are allowing residents to show your email receipt which contains your license plate for admittance to the beaches.
All beach area permit parking is in effect. |
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The Fairfield COVID-19 Relief Fund was established to provide limited, one-time assistance to Fairfield residents who have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Use of the funds must be directly related to the effects of the virus. Donate to the fund or apply for relief by visiting www.fairfieldct.org/covidrelieffund
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BUSINESS:
Visit fairfieldct.org/businessreopening for May 20th Reopen Guidance
Museums and Zoos (Outdoor Only)
Offices
Restaurants (Outdoor Only)
Retail and Malls
More Information
In addition, here is Fairfield specific permit and guidance:
Temporary Tent and Patio Permit
Temporary Outdoor Seating Guidelines
Before your business can open your doors, you must self-certify that you are following strict safety guidelines to keep your employees and customers safe. The link to self-certify can be found here.
For more information on state and federal support for businesses, click here. The Small Business Owner’s Guide to the Federal CARES Act, click here. |
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BIGELOW CENTER AND SOCIAL SERVICES
Meals for those who are unable to cook or get to the market, and Senior Grocery bags, provided by the Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging, will continue to be delivered by Senior Center staff and CERT volunteers. Transportation for medical appointments and grocery shopping will resume when advised by the Health Director that those services are safe to resume for Seniors.
Social Services continues to assist by telephone town residents who are experiencing difficulty providing the basic needs for themselves and their families, especially during these unprecedented times.
Bigelow Center and Social Services staff is available by phone during normal business hours to answer your questions and provide further guidance on available resources for seniors during this Public Health Emergency. The Senior Center phone number is 203-256-3166 and Fairfield Social Services can be reached at 203-256-3170.
Tax Prep Assistance:
VITA Tax Prep Assistance is available to Fairfield residents. Many of you had appointments to have your taxes done at the Center this year. 2-1-1 of Connecticut has made available Virtual VITA Tax Help. The Virtual VITA Tax Program is available for individuals who generally make $56,000 or less; persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers who need assistance in prepared their tax returns. Click here to be directed to 2-1-1 of Connecticut for more information.
The US Tax filing deadline extended to July 15 due to COVID-19.
VITA is offering free virtual tax preparation to residents without in-person contact. The site and requisite document exchange mechanisms are encrypted for safety, and the methodology conforms to IRS policy and procedures. Go to: Free Tax Preparation Service Online
The IRS announced a sweeping series of steps to assist taxpayers by providing relief on a variety of issues ranging from easing payment guidelines to postponing compliance actions for those facing challenges related to COVID-19 IRS Tax Relief |
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SOCIAL SERVICES
We're all feeling anxious about the coronavirus, concerned about isolation, worried about our jobs and our families. Just remember: Social distancing doesn't have to mean social isolation! In fact, staying engaged with others is the best way to manage the stress, focus on positives, and worry less--even while "hunkering down" at home. Talking with people you trust about your feelings is very useful for managing stress. If you are feeling anxious or fearful right now, you are not alone. Stress can manifest in a variety of ways, and it is important to pay attention to how you are feeling, mentally and physical, and recognize when you are feeling stressed or anxious.
FEELING IN CRISIS? When you're feeling overwhelmed, know that there are free options to help you talk through your crisis--and to send help when necessary. Fairfield Social Services is here to help. Call 203-256-3170 for more information. For additional resources, please click on The Hub: Behavioral Health Action Organization of Southwestern Connecticut to view services and assistance available to you during this challenging time.
Being a parent or caregiver during this crisis can be extremely stressful. It is perfectly normal to be experiencing varying emotions and feel overwhelmed. No matter what you're feeling, we're here to listen. Parents and caregivers can call the toll-free Talk It Out line to discuss their feelings in a judgement-free environment. Call: 1-833-258-5011 or Visit: www.talkitoutct.com
The CT Young Adult Warm Line (855.6-HOPENOW or 855.467.3669) is open from 12-9 p.m every day, with 18-25 years old specialists trained in peer support who have dealt with mental health or substance issues.
The Soundview Warm Line (800.921.0359) is open 9 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week for any age. We are in this together, and help is always available. If you’re feeling alone and struggling, you can also reach out to The Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741 or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.
Mental Health & Substance Use Help is available: During this pandemic, it is important to make sure we take care of our mental health as well as our physical health. Fears surrounding illness and loved ones as well as the disruption to the normal routine may impact or be impacted by your mental health. This is an especially challenging time for those struggling with substance use. The DCF website has a detailed list of resources for dealing with mental health and substance use, some of which are below. In an emergency, always call 9-1-1.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call: 1-800-273-8255; Text: Crisis Text Line (741741)
TrevorLifeLine serves LGBTQ+ youth Call: 1-800-488-7386 ; Text: 678678
2-1-1 can help connect you to a mental health professional
AddictionResource has information on free addiction counseling as well as a confidential drug hotline. Call: Free & Confidential Drug Hotline (888-915-8128). Chat/Visit: addictionresource.com |
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LOCAL TAXES
Tax Deferment: Any real estate, motor vehicle, personal property or sewer taxes that became due on April 1st will not be considered delinquent if paid by July 1st. Also, all taxes that become due on July 1st will not be considered delinquent if paid by October 1st. Please note that Fairfield landlords can learn more about how to qualify by contacting the tax collector's office. For anyone with questions, please click here or call 203.256.3100.
Senior & Disabled Tax Relief both the State and Town Programs: The Governor issued Executive Order 7S which includes a provision to eliminate the refiling requirement for those applicants due to refile this year. If you were due to refile this year, you were notified by mail in February. As a result of this Executive Order, you are no longer required to come into our office to refile. In addition we mailed a postcard to those that do not need to reapply on April 16,2020 as confirmation.
If you are seeking benefits for the first time you will need to apply. Please contact the office at 203-256-3110 and we will work with you on submitting the required documentation. |
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UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
If you become unemployed due to coronavirus (COVID-19), you should file for unemployment benefits. Click here for more information. For frequently asked questions about coronavirus (COVID-19) for workers and employers click here. |
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MORTGAGE RELIEF
The state has provided a FAQ which is a resource to help answer many of your questions about unemployment, mortgage relief and more. Please read it here. The Governor provided information on mortgage payment relief with over 50 credit unions and banks to help residents and businesses impacted by COVID-19. Participating financial institutions are now offering mortgage-payment forbearances of up to 90 days.
All landlords are prohibited from issuing a notice to quit or beginning eviction proceedings before July 1, 2020, except for serious nuisance, such as physically harming another tenant or the landlord. For rent due in April 2020, landlords must grant tenants an automatic, 60-day grace period for payment, instead of the existing 9-day grace period. Read more. |
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COVID-19 TESTING
CVS has expanded their drive thru testing to include 12 new sites in CT. These new sites will utilize self-swab tests and will be available to individuals meeting Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria, in addition to age guidelines. Learn more here.
At this time, testing priority is given to those who are high risk. For more information on testing sites and protocols click here or visit www.fairfieldct.org/covid19. |
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OPERATION HOPE FOOD PANTRY
Operation Hope wants to make sure residents of Fairfield are aware that the food pantry remains open and is ready to help by providing food and other basic needs to community residents, as they have for nearly 35 years. The pantry is currently operating as a drive-up service at 636 Old Post Road offering prepacked bags of groceries appropriate for various sized households.
The hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 10:00-12:00; Thursday from 4:00 -6:00. Emergency bags can be provided during off hours between 9:00 and 4:00 in special cases. All that’s required for your first visit is a valid drivers license/proof of residency. |
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FAIRFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY: OPEN ONLINE
Did you know the Fairfield Library has digital resources, instant cards and can answer questions remotely? They also have virtual programs. Follow them on Facebook or visit their website!
Sign up for the library newsletter here. |
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PEQUOT LIBRARY: WE'RE HERE, WE CARE 
Pequot Library's doors may be temporarily closed, but our librarians and staff are still here for you! Enjoy digital programs like story times, author talks, book clubs, and more! Get details on our website and social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Sign up for Pequot Library's Digital Digest eNewsletter or contact our Chief Librarian for personalized book recommendations. |
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FISHING LICENSES
Fishing licenses may be purchased online through the State of CT DEEP Portal. Click here. |
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DOG LICENSING
Dogs six months of age or older must be licensed before July 1st each year. Licensing begins June 1st. Licenses must be purchased through the mail. Here is a link to the application.
Reminder postcards will be mailed at the end of May. If you do not have any changes (updated rabies/spay or neutering certificates) just send your postcard, check and self-addressed stamped envelope to the Town Clerk’s Office, 611 Old Post Rd., Fairfield CT 06824. |
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PUBLIC SAFETY REQUESTS
In an Emergency, please Dial 911. Our Police and Fire Departments remain fully staffed, ready and able to respond to any emergency.
For non-emergency complaints or requests for service, please utilize the phone numbers below:
Police: (203) 254-4800
Fire: (203) 254-4700 |
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2020 CENSUS
While you are home, to please complete the 2020 Census. We need your participation. You can complete it online, on the phone or by mail. Click here to find out how. |
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TOWN GOVERNMENT
Each department will have new guidelines as to how you can reach them on various services. Please visit this summary page for an overview and follow links to specific departments for more information. |
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HELP FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS
The Center for Family Justice closed its main Bridgeport offices in  response to the COVID-19 pandemic but staff is now working remotely to serve clients in crisis.
The hotline numbers are:
Domestic Violence: 203-384-9559
Sexual Violence: 203-333-2233
Spanish Hotline: 888-568-8332 |
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Important COVID-19 Links:
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Contact Information:
For general questions you can call 211
Hartford HealthCare’s COVID-19 Clinical Command Center hotline, staffed by healthcare professionals, is now available to the community. To reach the 24-hour hotline, call 860.972.8100 or (toll-free) 833.621.0600.
YNHH has a call center number it’s 1-833-ASK YNHH that’s open from 7am - 7pm.
For additional information and prevention tips, refer to the Health Department website at: www.fairfieldct.org/health or the Fairfield homepage under news at www.fairfieldct.org. |
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PREVIOUS COVID-19 UPDATES:
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