Coronavirus Update-Rapid Spread Continues, Social Distance, Volunteering, School Closing Extension

March 23rd-The rapid spread of the virus has not slowed and will continue. Statewide, Connecticut is experiencing a positive test rate of 13% versus less than 8% nationally.  The NYC area, to the south of us, is experiencing a rate of 28%.  That area’s rapid growth is fueling Connecticut’s. Push back! Whatever your age or medical condition, for your safety, your family’s and your community’s, please continue to behave as if you have the virus and as if those around you do as well.  

• Maintain a distance of 6 feet between you and another person.  This standard applies whether inside or outside.
• Consolidate your shopping and errands to minimize the numbers of days you must leave your home. 
• Please do not run to the store every time you hear a delivery has arrived. Widespread overbuying is the major cause of shortages.  With businesses and schools closed and not ordering, new supply chains are open.
• Take advantage of the delivery options offered by many Wilton businesses.
• Practice your team sport on your own, not with your teammates.  The internet is full of videos and suggestions on how to do this. 
• Do walk outside. If your street is walkable, please consider walking there rather than a public trail. When the NRVT parking lot, or that of another trail, is more than 50% full, please find another place to walk.  There are 127 miles of town-owned roads, more than 80 private roads and more than 3 miles of sidewalk on state-owned roads.
• Please respect the town’s closure of fields and recreation facilities.  

Thank you for doing your part to stop the spread!

CT DPH released updated statewide data. DPH reports ten laboratory-confirmed cases for Wilton, 270 for Fairfield County and 415 statewide.  There have been ten deaths, six of which are in Fairfield County.  We continue to believe DPH’s Wilton case numbers are understated due to a lag in reporting.  If you have received a confirmed or presumptive positive test and you have not been contacted by the Wilton Health Department, please contact the department.  

A volunteer network, Wilton Helping Hands, led by Peg Koellmer, has been organized to address the needs of Wilton’s most vulnerable population.  There are many ways to volunteer at a social distance, from doorstep drop off of basic necessities to making daily calls or sending emails.  To volunteer, please call 203-451-8479.  If you or someone you know is in need of help, please contact Director of Social Services Sarah Heath at sarah.heath@wiltonct.org.

The Governor’s prohibition on in-person functions for non-essential businesses and not-for-profits became effective tonight at 8:00pm.  Inquiries and appeals by business owners will be entertained.  A new page, with coronavirus focused small business resources, is now on the town website. Many residents have emailed to ask about the status of golf courses, including private clubs.  As of now, they are classified as non-essential and are closed as of this evening.

On today’s call with leaders across the State, the Governor announced his school closings order will be extended to at least April 20th.  The State has prepared a FAQ on its response to the virus.

As always, if you have any questions, email me or the appropriate town department.  

Thank you,

Lynne Vanderslice

First Selectwoman