Parish President Guy McInnis today ordered Parish Departments to take additional steps that can help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) by going to essential personnel only and limiting public access to certain facilities.

“As you all know there are efforts all throughout the country to slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). Parts of those efforts are strengthening the local response to the outbreak while continuing to run local government. However, we must do so by balancing the needs of the public with the needs of our employees and mitigating the spread of this virus. We are asking everyone to be ready to adapt quickly as this situation remains fluid” said Parish President Guy McInnis.

The following is a list of procedures implemented in St. Bernard Parish Government for its Departments and Employees:

Stood up EOC and Activated Essential Personnel

All Government Travel to all destinations has been suspended

St. Bernard Parish Government employees recommend to not travel

Spending Limitations to COVID-19 and Daily Emergency Operations

Limited Hiring to Essential Personnel Only (IF NEEDED)

Following Buildings and Facilities are CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC:

Tourism

Recreation

Animal Control

Housing

Public Works

Event Rental Facilities (Civic Center, Historic Courthouse, Aycock Barn and Val Reiss Sports Complex)

Water and Sewer Billing Offices

Will be closed to the public, however a Drop-box will be available at the window

Office of Community Development

Open to appointments only

Recreation and Property Plant Maintenance Departments will work together cleaning Parish Government owned facilities

Transit Department

Will continue to run on Holiday Schedule Only

All non-essential employees are on call

President McInnis recently signed a local emergency declaration. A measure to formulize a plan with state and federal agencies, for quick acquisition of supplies and to ease access to state and federal funds should they become available in response to COVID-19.

St. Bernard Parish Government will continue to focus on preparation and protection. We will continue to guide our citizens and continue working closely with our local, state and federal partners to keep the residents of St. Bernard safe and informed.

Note: Though several departments will be closed to the public, all departments will remain open and can be reached by phone or e-mail. Please follow sbpg.net, the social media pages and press releases for relevant updates. Anyone wishing to reach a department or who needs more information can call 504.278.4200 between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday—Friday.