COVID CONNECTION: Updates from County Council

Prince George's County Legislative Branch sent this bulletin at 03/27/2020 07:34 PM EDT

CORONAVIRUS COVID-19: THE PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY COUNCIL RESPONDS

Welcome to this Special Edition of Council Connections. We are continuing to work with County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, her Executive team, the County Health Department and Office of Emergency Management, as well as our Federal, State, private and not-for-profit partners, to address services, information and any necessary resources to our County in response to this health emergency.

WATCH Video Message

COVID-19 has changed life as we know it, at least for now. Especially in this time of crisis and uncertainty, the Council is continuing its service to County residents. Individual Council Member offices are remotely providing assistance as needed. Connect with us online, or on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter .

COUNTY COUNCIL OPERATIONS

The County Council continues to operate remotely pursuant to the current County government operating status and under CR-10-2020. All timelines and/or deadlines associated with ongoing cases for the District Council, Zoning Hearing Examiner and Board of Appeals have been tolled for a period of sixty (60) days as of March 17, 2020, or until such time as the statewide state of emergency is lifted. Visit the Council online for additional COVID-19 information, Council status updates, and contact information for Council Members.

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY COUNCIL TO CONVENE VIRTUAL SESSION MARCH 31st; BOARD OF HEALTH TO CONVENE IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING SESSION

The Prince George’s County Council, aided by the use of technology, and in alignment with social distancing guidelines provided by the State of Maryland, will convene virtually on Tuesday, March 31, 2020, at 1:00 p.m., for a scheduled Council session. The County Council, sitting as the Board of Health, will also convene on March 31, 2020, immediately following the scheduled Council session at 1:15 p.m. The County Council session and Board of Health meeting will be open for public viewing. Council Members will participate using Zoom Meeting technology. Residents and media are encouraged to view Council session live and on demand HERE. This meeting format is consistent with Maryland’s Open Meetings Act and restrictions resulting from the state of emergency declared by Governor Hogan. READ media advisory.

STAY HEALTHY AND SAFE – FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES

During this public health emergency, and to lessen the catastrophic impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19), Prince George’s County residents are urged to continue following the public health guidelines that will help to reduce the spread of the coronavirus, and save lives:

Social Distancing – Remember six feet of safety. Stay six feet or more away from others in public settings.
Avoid Shaking Hands – Use the elbow bump or wave as an alternate greeting.
Cover Your Cough or Sneeze with a tissue, your sleeve or elbow.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds; and if that’s not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, stay at home, except to get medical care.

STAY INFORMED – GET CORONAVIRUS UPDATES

The impact of the coronavirus on our community is rapidly evolving. For the latest updates on COVID-19 in Prince George’s County, please visit the Prince George’s County Health Department Coronavirus web page, or call the Health Department Coronavirus Hotline at 301.883.6627, daily between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Please contact 911 for medical emergencies only. Do not contact 911 for Coronavirus- related issues. Visit the Maryland Department of Health online for State resources and information on the coronavirus.

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY TO OPEN FIRST GOVERNMENT - OPERATED SCREENING CLINIC IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19; SCREENING CLINIC HAS LIMITED TESTING CAPABILITY FOR THOSE MEETING STRINGENT CDC GUIDELINES

Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks announced today that the Prince George's County Health Department, in partnership with the Maryland National Guard, the Maryland Department of Health, and the University of Maryland Medical System, are opening a pilot COVID-19 assessment and screening location at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland. The screening location will be open for limited hours on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM starting on Monday, March 30. This is step one of a larger effort to establish screening clinics where onsite testing for specific groups will take place. “This screening site will allow us to assist those in need during this critical time, including individuals who do not have access to healthcare,” said Alsobrooks. “This is truly a collaborative effort between Prince George’s, the State and private entities. During these very uncertain times, it will take a team effort to pull through this pandemic.” READ full press release.

COUNTY EXECUTIVE HOLDS LATINO TELE-TOWN HALL; COUNCIL MEMBER DENI TAVERAS TO PARTICIPATE

On March 31st at 7:00 p.m., County Executive Angela Alsobrooks will host a TeleTown Hall in Spanish for our Latino community to address issues and concerns related to COVID-19. To register, visit https://bit.ly/marzo31 or call 3-1-1. Be sure to register before March 30 at 12:00 p.m.

El 31 de marzo a las 7:00 p.m., mi oficina albergará un TeleTown Hall en español para nuestra comunidad latina para abordar los problemas y preocupaciones relacionados con COVID-19. Para registrarse, visite https://bit.ly/marzo31 o llame al 311. Asegúrese de registrarse antes del 30 de marzo a las 12 p.m.

MARYLAND-NATIONAL CAPITAL PARK AND PLANNING COVID-19 RESPONSE

In response to the ongoing concerns regarding COVID-19, the Department of Parks and Recreation is extending its indoor facility closures to the public and cancellation of events and programs through April 30, 2020, effective immediately. Parks and trails will remain open to the public with ongoing maintenance operations. For assistance with their accounts, customers can email CustomerService@pgparks.com or call 301-699-2255. LEARN MORE about the M-NCPPC COVID-19 response.

SCHOOLS - PGCPS CLOSED UNTIL APRIL 24^th ; GRAB AND GO MEALS FOR STUDENTS

On March 25^th the State Board of Education announced that as a result of COVID-19, Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), as will all Maryland schools, REMAIN CLOSED until April 24^th. The County school system is working to address questions about the continuity of teaching and learning, the needs of graduating high school seniors, and assess student/parent needs for technology and Internet connection, especially in preparation for distance learning. “Grab and Go” meals, including breakfast, lunch and a snack, are available for pickup. Please visit PGCPS online for a full list of meal sites and more information about the PGCPS coronavirus response.

TRANSPORTATION – IF YOU ARE NOT FEELING WELL, DO NOT TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

WMATA-USE ONLY IF THERE’S NO OTHER OPTION

On March 26^th, Metro announced the strategic closing of 19 stations, including three stations in Prince George’s County – Cheverly, College Park and Morgan Boulevard, in an effort to conserve critical resources and protect the health and safety of Metro employees and the public during the COVID-19 crisis. Metrorail and Metrobus are also operating with limited service for essential trips only. For more information and a listing of closed stations, click HERE.

“TheBus” – LIMITED SERVICE

Effective March 23^rd, Prince George’s County “TheBus” implemented Phase II of service reductions as fewer riders are expected to utilize services due to coronavirus (COVID-19). There will be no fare charged on TheBus routes in service until further notice. Also, to support social distancing, TheBus will allow riders to enter and exit using rear doors only. Exceptions will be made for the disabled and mothers with strollers. Riders can call 301.324.BUSS or VISIT TheBus online for coronavirus updates, and map and schedule information.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Prince George’s County Health Department Coronavirus hotline at (301)883-6627 during 8:00am - 8:00pm to receive updated information about the coronavirus disease. *Please contact 911 for medial emergencies only. Do not contact 911 for Coronavirus related issues.

Prince George’s County and CDC offer free resources including factsheets, FAQs, posters, guides, and videos.

Here are links to resources available for use and distribution:

Prince George's County Coronavirus

Maryland Coronavirus

CDC Coronavirus

AREA UTILITIES EXTEND SERVICES TO ASSIST CUSTOMERS

KEEPING THE POWER ON IN A CRISIS

PEPCO and BGE are both closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic and assisting customers through temporary or extended financial hardship. Both utility companies are suspending service disconnections and waiving new late payment fees through at least May 1. The utilities are also working with customers on a case-by-case basis to establish payment arrangements and identify energy assistance options.

LEARN MORE about PEPCO’S programs to help.
LEARN MORE about BGE’s programs to help.

WASHINGTON GAS is suspending disconnections and waiving late fees on customer bills until this crisis ends. These actions are automatically in place and do not need to be requested. In addition, the company is offering payment arrangements designed to meet customers’ needs. Click HERE for more information about the Washington Gas COVID-19 response.

WSSC Water has announced it is suspending all water service shutoffs for those facing financial difficulties. Your tap water is safe. Don’t fall victim to a scammer selling you a water filter for Coronavirus (COVID-19). The virus is NOT detected in water and NOT transmitted by water. WSSC Water treats and tests the water to deliver it safely to you. For more information, READ the WSSC Water statement on COVID-19.

COMCAST AND VERIZON have also announced coronavirus relief efforts. It is important that Prince Georgians stay connected in this crisis, especially for educational, work and personal health and safety reasons. Find out more about the COMCAST COVID-19 response. Learn more about the Verizon response to the coronavirus pandemic.

LOST YOUR JOB? NOT IN THIS ALONE.

Unfortunately, the coronavirus outbreak has caused significant job losses. Employ Prince George’s is dedicated to continuing operations and helping Prince Georgians and businesses navigate this pandemic. Questions about COVID-19, workforce development, or unemployment insurance? Employ Prince George’s has answers. Click HERE. Get important information on how to apply for unemployment insurance benefits online.

CRISIS IMPACT/RESOURCES
FOR BUSINESSES

OPEN: ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES ONLY

Effective March 23rd at 5:00 PM, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan ordered all non-essential businesses to close. Residents are also urged to stay home and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Essential businesses that will remain open include grocery stores, healthcare facilities, utility companies, gas stations, and law enforcement agencies. For more information, click HERE.

COVID-19 COUNTY BUSINESS SUPPORT

The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and FSC First are dedicated to keeping the County’s business community updated during the COVID-19 global pandemic, with local and state resources. Check EDC and FSC First daily for updates Maryland State loan and grant resources available to businesses. Maryland has authorized $130 million in loan and grant funding for small businesses and manufacturers that have been impacted by COVID-19. This emergency assistance can be used to pay cash operating expenses including payroll, suppliers, rent, fixed debt payments and other mission-critical cash operating costs. Both the Maryland Department of Labor and the Maryland Department of Commerce continuously update information to keep communities informed as well.

HOUSING

By Administrative Order from the Maryland Court of Appeals, all evictions or foreclosures will be suspended until further notice in Prince George’s County.

CAPITAL AREA FOOD BANK

Help is available for those who need it during the COVID-19 crisis. While no pop-up food pantries are scheduled at this time, the Capital Area Food Bank and its community partners have a number of RESOURCES available.

HELP FOR SENIORS

Local grocery stores are reserving special early morning shopping hours for our seniors and other residents at high risk for COVID-19. Also, the Maryland Department of Aging has established a “Senior Call Check” service, a daily call to check in on our seniors who may live alone. You can register for the service at 1-866-50 -CHECK.

WASTE MANAGEMENT UPDATE

Regular trash, recycling, and yard trim collection continues as scheduled. Bulky trash pick-up has been suspended, and residents are asked to please keep these items at home until service is reinstated.

PUBLIC SAFETY

In light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and in an effort to allow for increased social distancing between officers and civilians, the Prince George’s County Police Department will begin taking specific reports over the phone rather than in-person. This new effort will only impact calls for non-violent crimes. Those wishing to report a crime should still call 911 as usual.

GENTLE REMINDER! #ProudToBeCounted

Even in the midst of this public health emergency, Census 2020 is critically important. For your health and safety, social distance and stay at home. And while you’re there, take 10 minutes and fill out your Census form. Your responses will impact several critical services to residents - including how many vaccines may be apportioned to each county, city or municipality of the state of Maryland. That’s especially important as we confront the COVID-19 pandemic. Take 10. Fill out the form for a better community. It’s SAFE, EASY and IMPORTANT. Learn more at www.PGCensus2020.org

COUNCIL LEADERSHIP PARTICIPATES IN “WHAT’S THE 3-1-1? KNOW YOUR COUNTY GOVERNMENT,” FIRST OF A SERIES OF CONFERENCE CALLS WITH RESIDENTS

Discussing the importance of Census 2020 participation in Prince George’s County, Council Chair Todd M. Turner and Council Vice-Chair Calvin S. Hawkins, II, joined the County Office of Community Relations’ “What’s the 3-1-1? Know Your County Government,” conference call for residents, on Thursday, March 26^th. This event was the first in a 4-part conference call series allowing residents to "get the 311" on government resources and services. The March 26th calls focus on #PGCCOVID19, the Census, and more. designed to educate and inform Prince Georgians about the processes and procedures of County Government.

DISTRICT 7 COUNCIL MEMBER RODNEY STREETER DISCUSSES COVID-19 COMMUNITY IMPACT ON “SUNDAY MORNING HOPE”

District 7 Council Member Rodney C. Streeter visited the studios of “Sunday Morning Hope,” this week (social distancing of course!), for an interview with show host and Senior Pastor of Community of Hope AME Church, the Reverend Tony Lee. The discussion focused on the community impact of the coronavirus crisis, and the County’s response to support businesses, residents and stop the spread of COVID-19. This edition of “Sunday Morning Hope” will air on Sunday, March 29th, at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon on WPGC-FM 95.5.

DISTRICT 8 COUNCIL MEMBER MONIQUE ANDERSON-WALKER HOLDS FIRST VIRTUAL CHARRETTE “COMMUNITY PLANNING MEETING”

Over 150 District 8 constituents joined Council Member Monique Anderson Walker for her first virtual charrette, “Community Planning Meeting,” held remotely, on March 25th. The charrette featured a presentation on the Henson Creek Village Area Study by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission.

VIEW the Community Planning Meeting on YouTube.

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