COVID-19 Response Update - Governor Baker to Close Non-Essential Businesses

Town of Hubbardston COVID-19 Response Update - Message from the Town Administrator

Today, March 23, 2020, Governor Baker issued an order further limiting public/non-public gatherings and closing non-essential businesses from tomorrow, March 24, 2020 at 12pm to April 7, 2020 at 12pm.

Here is a full copy of the order

The order specifically details essential services. Restaurants, bars, and other establishments that sell food and beverage products to the public are encouraged to continue to offer food for take-out and by delivery if they follow the social distancing protocols set forth in Department of Public Health guidance. On-premises consumption of food or drink is prohibited.

Here is the essential services list

The order continues to ban gatherings of more than 10 people and bans outdoor and athletic events where residents come within close proximity. Parks and outdoor recreation areas where social distancing can be maintained ARE NOT banned as part of this order, but we are asking that residents strictly adhere to to the six-foot recommendations on distancing. The Curtis Recreational Fields will remain open, but the playground equipment, courts and skate park will remain closed. The schools and all school grounds remain closed to the public. In short, if you are out of your home, please have a purpose and follow social-distancing protocols.

All town buildings will remain closed to the public for the duration of the Governor's March 23 order. All Town of Hubbardston employees are considered essential; however, I am ordering that employees, where possible, work remotely. We are committed as a staff to providing the same excellent services to our residents despite this remote working status. All phone calls and emails will be returned timely and our staff is continuing to provide the essential functions of government.

The Board of Selectmen will meet virtually on Wednesday, March 25th at 630pm to discuss the declaration of a local state of emergency. This will allow the town to spend above appropriations where necessary to continue to provide essential services and public safety.

I know this is a difficult time for many. I am asking residents to follow these recommendations and orders to remain consistent with guidance from the federal, state and local level. We must protect our essential businesses, our public safety employees and our essential functions of government.

This is a strong and resilient community. I am honored to serve here and the Town of Hubbardston staff remains ready to serve the public to the best of our abilities.