COVID-19 Updates: State Of Emergency Declared In East Hampton Village

East Hampton Village Mayor Richard Lawler declared a State of Emergency on Friday, April 3, which expands on an earlier March 13 ruling.

The new order gives the mayor the authority to close all village buildings to the public with the exception of the police department headquarters on Cedar Street.

In addition, all bids issued in compliance with village business between now and April 26 are suspended, and the Village Police Chief Mike Tracey and/or the mayor may take “whatever actions are deemed necessary to protect public health and safety.”

All village board meetings are suspended until further notice.

Riverhead Closes Parks

Riverhead Police Chief David Hegermiller, concerned some residents were using public parks in defiance of a state mandate on social gatherings, shut down all public basketball courts i and said a device would be installed to keep balls from going through the hoop. The skate park, the hockey rink at Stotzky Park, and all dog parks are also closed.

Recreation Facilities Closed In Southold

Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell ordered all town active recreation facilities closed until further notice.

“This includes all courts, ball fields, and the hockey rink,” he said. “Participants of any games or competitions will be dispersed. The parks will remain open for passive use only providing that social distancing and gathering prohibitions are honored.”

The order is effective immediately.

Violating PAUSE

East Hampton Town Police Captain Michael Sarlo said there have been complaints about local businesses violating the state’s PAUSE executive order to shut down, and warned violators they face fines and penalties. Some businesses that are allowed to remain open are violating the six-foot social distancing guideline by allowing too many people inside.

rmurphy@indyeastend.com