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The City of Boca Raton is closing all non-essential retail and commercial establishments, effective 12:01am Wednesday, March 25, 2020, until further notice.

View the full Emergency Order (PDF).

All nonessential retail and commercial business locations (meaning all that are not expressly deemed essential as stated in 2 below) are ordered closed except to the extent necessary to perform Minimum Basic Operations.

Minimum Basic Operations means the minimum activities necessary to maintain the value of inventory, preserve plant and equipment condition, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, and facilitate employees working remotely, provided such businesses shall practice, and ensure persons interacting with and within such businesses practice, social distancing and all other measures as advised by the CDC.

The following retail and commercial businesses are deemed essential and existing retail and commercial business locations of these businesses may remain open, but shall practice, and ensure persons interacting with and within such businesses practice, social distancing and all other measures as advised by the CDC:

Essential Businesses That May Remain Open

Original post:
City of Boca Raton Issues Updated Emergency Order Effective Wednesday, Until Further Notice - The Boca Raton Tribune

Gov. Larry Hogan has ordered all non-essential businesses in the state to close. That includes bars, restaurants, entertainment venues and other places where crowds could gather that are not critical to infrastructure of day-to-day life.

Hogan emphasized that this is not a shelter-in-place order, as has been issued in other states. He said he believes closing down businesses is a more effective way to keep people from venturing out.

"Marylanders are urged to remain home, and employers are urged to promote work-from-home arrangements to the greatest extent possible," according to the Office of Legal Counsel of Maryland.

In Monday's press conference, Hogan thanked the Marylanders who have been social distancing and staying at home, but cautioned those who have not complied.

Unfortunately, many people are still not taking it seriously," Hogan said. "There were crowds of people visiting the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., and large gatherings on the beach in Ocean City and on the boardwalk. If you are engaged in this kind of activity, you are breaking the law, and you are literally endangering the lives of your family, your friends, and fellow citizens."

The cloture of all non-essential businesses began at 5 p.m. Monday, March 23.

Hogan said it's a difficult decision having to close businesses, but his administration is trying to be aggressive to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"It's the twin battles, so we don't take any of these steps, and hundreds of thousands or millions of people are going to die in America," Hogan said. "We do take these steps and hundreds of thousands are going to be hurt economically, so its a terrible choice, and so the solution is we try to do both. We try to save lives, and then we try to help save the economy."

He said they have set up multiple funds to help small businesses weather the storm.

At least one of the funds provides up to $10,000 in the form of a direct, immediate grant to help businesses with fewer than 50 employees. His administration said they are also offering up to $50,000 in low-interest loans, with a 0 percent interest rate in the first 12 months.

To help families as they try to stock up on supplies, the Governor also signed an executive order Monday to ban price gauging.

Retailers who attempt to exploit this crisis for profit and gain will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law," the Governor said.

Below is a list of businesses that are considered essential and will remain open, according to a release from the Office of Legal Counsel of Maryland.

The Chemical Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Pharmaceutical manufacturers.

ii. Chemical manufacturers.

iii. Distributors of chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

The Commercial Facilities Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Lodging.

ii. Building and property maintenance companies, including without limitation plumbers, electricians, HVAC service companies, roofers, environmental services companies, exterminators, arborists, and landscapers.

iii. Janitorial firms.

iv. Companies that sell supplies and materials for maintenance of commercial and residential buildings, including big box home improvement supply stores, plumbing distributors, electrical distributors, and HVAC distributors.

v. Laundromats, dry cleaners, and laundry services.

vi. Commercial and residential construction companies.

vii. Self-storage facilities.

RELATED: Gov. Hogan issues order to close all nonessential businesses in Maryland

The Communications Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Broadcasting companies and stations.

ii. Cable TV companies.

iii. Telephone (cellular and landline) companies.

iv. Internet service providers.

The Critical Manufacturing Sector includes, but is not limited to, manufacturing of:

i. Steel, iron, and aluminum products.

ii. Engines, motors, turbines, generators, and power transmission equipment.

iii. Earth-moving, mining, agricultural, and construction equipment.

iv. Parts for water, electric, and telecommunications utility infrastructure.

v. Land, air, and water vehicles, and related parts.

vi. Medical equipment.

vii. Personal protective equipment.

viii. Cleaning and sanitation equipment and supplies.

The Defense Industrial Base Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Companies that research, develop, manufacture, or integrate weapons, defense, or intelligence systems or assets.

ii. Private contractors that support defense and intelligence agencies.

The Emergency Services Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Law enforcement.

ii. Emergency medical services.

iii. Emergency management.

iv. Fire and rescue services.

v. Private ambulance companies.

The Energy Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Companies engaged in electricity production (excluding hydroelectric and nuclear, which are included in other sectors).

ii. Companies engaged in the production, refining, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of oil, gas, and propane products, including gas stations and truck stops.

iii. Companies that provide utility maintenance services.

The Financial Services Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Banks and credit unions.

ii. Non-bank lenders.

iii. Payroll processing companies.

iv. Payment processing companies.

v. Armored car companies.

vi. Insurance companies.

vii. Securities and investment companies.

viii. Accounting and bookkeeping firms.

The Food and Agriculture Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Grocery stores.

ii. Farmers markets.

iii. Convenience stores.

iv. Alcoholic beverage stores and distributors, distilleries, and wineries.

v. Institutional food service and supply companies.

vi. Farms.

vii. Food manufacturing and processing.

viii. Pet supply stores.

ix. Veterinary hospitals, clinics, and kennels.

x. Companies that manufacture, maintain, and sell agricultural equipment.

xi. Companies that manufacture, or support the manufacturing of paper products.

Please note: Restaurants and bars are required to close except for carryout, delivery, and drive-through sales.

RELATED: 'Now is not the time' | Ocean City beach, boardwalk closes amid coronavirus concerns

The Government Facilities Sector also encompasses private persons and entities that support the judicial system including, but not limited to:

i. Lawyers and law firms.

ii. Court reporters.

iii. Bail bondsmen.

The Healthcare and Public Health Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Hospitals.

ii. Healthcare systems and clinics.

iii. Offices of health care providers, including physicians, dentists, and pharmacists.

iv. Physical, occupation, and speech therapists.

v. Behavioral health facilities and professionals, including psychologists, mental health counselors, and substance abuse counselors

vi. Rehabilitation facilities.

vii. Diagnostic facilities, including radiology, imaging, and laboratory facilities.

viii. Health plans, payers, and billing companies.

ix. Funeral homes and crematoriums.

x. Senior living facilities, including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing.

xi. Manufacturers and distributors of medical equipment and supplies.

xii. Medical cannabis growers, processors, and dispensaries.

xiii. Home health care companies.

xiv. Pharmacies.

The Information Technology Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Companies that design, develop, distribute, host, sell, and support information technology software and hardware.

ii. Companies that provide network routing, access, and configuration services.

The Transportation Systems Sector includes, but is not limited to:

i. Airlines and operators of commercial aircraft (manned and unmanned).

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LIST: These are the only businesses to remain open in Maryland - WUSA9.com

On March 17 and 20, 2020, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Orders 20-68 and 20-71, announcing unprecedented state-wide closures of bars and nightclubs, restaurants for on-site dining, and stand-alone gyms. Since then, additional counties and municipalities in Florida have enacted more stringent measures attempting to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The virus has continued to spread rapidly in South Florida, including the Tampa Bay area. As of March 26, 2020, the Florida Department of Health reported 2,359 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Florida residents and 29 deaths. The counties with the highest reported cases were Dade (654), Broward (505), Palm Beach (174), and Hillsborough (151). Pinellas County reported 65 cases.

Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners issued the first safer-at-home order impacting Tampa Bay, Resolution No. 20-20. The order is effective March 26, 2020 through the expiration of the countys declared State of Local Emergency or until the Board of County Commissioners determines that a policy change is in the publics best interest. Hillsborough County Emergency Policy Group passed a similar safer-at-home order effective 10:00 p.m. on March 27, 2020, until it is rescinded by the countys Emergency Policy Group.

Both counties orders require businesses to close if they do not provide Essential Services or cannot maintain the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) social distancing and group gathering guidelines to keep at least six feet between persons.

Pinellas County

In Pinellas County, non-essential businesses must post a notice that is clearly visible at all times to those present on the premises including patrons and employees, in a form to be established by the County Administrator. A list of frequently-asked questions can be accessed on the countys website. Businesses that do not comply with the order may be subject to enforcement action up to and including orders to close and criminal charges.

The Pinellas County order also broadly defines Essential Services, to include the following:

Hillsborough County

The Hillsborough County safer-at-home order emphasizes that all residents are directed to stay at home as much as possible twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, except in limited circumstances. In addition to social distancing, businesses are required to follow Florida Department of Health guidance and to use best practices, as set forth by the CDC and the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act, to reduce the risk of worker exposure to COVID-19 in workplaces. A violation of the order may be prosecuted as a second degree misdemeanor punishable as provided in section 775.082 or 775.083, Florida Statutes.

The order exempts the following essential individuals, businesses, and services:

Similar measures involving closure of certain businesses are currently effective in other counties and municipalities across Florida, including:

Employers may want to review these orders to ensure they are in compliance in all areas of Florida where they conduct business.

Read the rest here:
COVID-19 Safer-at-Home Orders Now Effective in Tampa Bay and Other Florida Counties and Municipalities - Lexology

As more and more states and localities shut down entire industries and order workers and citizens to stay home and shelter in place, many companies are asking How does this affect my operations? In this post, we focus on the Construction Industry and how it fits into the Federal, state and municipal mosaic of what is being defined as essential.

In many of the states and localities that have ordered nonessential industries to cease physical location, in-office or in-facility work, the orders or guidance categorize construction as essential infrastructure. Some of this is on their own volition, other States have relied or been guided by Federal Guidance that has been published by Homeland Security Cyber and Infrastructure (CISA) Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Division. This publication is commonly referred to as CISA. https://www.cisa.gov/news/2020/03/19/cisa-releases-guidance-essential-critical-infrastructure-workers-during-covid-19.

Under CISA many construction activities have been deemed to be essential This means that, for that States that are following CISA, in general, construction and construction supply companies may continue operations.

However, not all Executive Orders are created equal. Governors and mayors have created a patchwork of mandates to attempt to flatten the corona virus curve, and not all sectors of the construction industry have a green light to stay open and running. It is vital to carefully review Orders and associated guidance to determine how it applies to the construction industry as a whole, and specific subsections of the construction industry. Moreover, these Orders are subject to change as we saw this morning in New York state. As such, please make sure you are looking at the latest guidance that has been issued or feel free to give us a call or email to discuss your questions.

Below is a list of how California, Nevada, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Washington, DC, Pennsylvania, Texas, Massachusetts and New Jersey are treating construction in the context of non-essential business physical closure Orders and how some specific jurisdictions such as Philadelphia, Miami, Las Vegas, Atlanta San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego have responded all of which directly affects construction industry operations.

*This List has been updated as of March 27, 2020, (3:15 pm EST)

Jurisdictions Direct Impact on Construction Companies and Projects

California: California ordered that all workers must stay home, except workers deemed Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers.

Generally, construction workers are essential to critical infrastructure. See Guidance. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate and construction workers may go to work.

Specifically designated as essential are:

Workers who support the operation, inspection, and maintenance of essential public works facilities and operations, including bridges, water and sewer main breaks, fleet maintenance personnel, construction of critical or strategic infrastructure, construction material suppliers, traffic signal maintenance, emergency location services for buried utilities, maintenance of digital systems infrastructure supporting public works operations, and other emergent issues;

Engineers, technicians and associated personnel responsible for infrastructure construction and restoration, including contractors for construction and engineering of fiber optic cables;

Construction Workers who support the construction, operation, inspection, and maintenance of construction sites and construction projects (including housing construction);

Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, construction material sources, and essential operation of construction sites and construction projects (including those that support such projects to ensure the availability of needed facilities, transportation, energy and communications; and support to ensure the effective removal, storage, and disposal of solid waste and hazardous waste).

Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego:

These cities in California have each taken separate positions some view construction as essential (e.g., San Francisco) and as such permit construction to remain operational which is at odds with the State position on construction (other than as noted above) being deemed to be NON-essential. Care should be taken in these cities to evaluate the State Executive Order in the context of City Orders, noting that in most cases the more restrictive interpretation is likely to rule the day.

Delaware: Delaware ordered the closure of all nonessential businesses.

Construction, however has been deemed to be an essential category. See List. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate and construction workers may go to work.

Specifically designated in the Order as essential are:

Workers who support the operation, inspection, and maintenance of essential public works facilities and operations, including bridges, water and sewer main breaks, fleet maintenance personnel, construction of critical or strategic infrastructure, traffic signal maintenance, emergency location services for buried utilities, maintenance of digital systems infrastructure supporting public works operations, and other emergent issues;

Engineers, technicians and associated personnel responsible for infrastructure construction and restoration, including contractors for construction and engineering of fiber optic cables.

Workers who are engaged in the construction of residential, nonresidential structures, or infrastructure, and any workers who provide critical maintenance to residential or non-residential structures;

Businesses that supply materials and hardware to those engaged in the construction of residential or non-residential structures; Workers involved in activities related to the design and apportionment of residential and non-residential structures.

Washington DC: Washington D.C. ordered the closure of all nonessential businesses except for Minimum Basic Operations.

Construction and Building Trades are, however, classified as Essential Businesses per the Order. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate.

The Order specifically includes the following as essential under that category: plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, electricians, boilermakers, exterminators, roofers, carpenters, bricklayers, welders, elevator mechanics, businesses that sell supplies and materials for maintenance of commercial and residential buildings and homes, including big box supply stores, plumbing distributors, electrical distributors, HVAC distributors, and other businesses that provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and operations of residences and Essential Businesses.

Florida: Florida has closed only bars and nightclubs at the moment (note, however, given the growth of cases in the last 48 hours, this may change). See March 23 Order. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate.

Miami:

Miami has ordered that all nonessential retail and commercial establishments close.

The following, among other industries, have been deemed essential:

Open construction sites, irrespective of the type of building;

Architectural, engineering, or land surveying services;

Contractors and other tradesmen who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences and other structures.

Generally, construction appears to be an essential business, but not all types of construction. Though open construction sites may remain open, the Order does not specifically include construction that has not yet commenced, except for specific purposes. Therefore, construction businesses should evaluate projects on a case-by-case basis.

Georgia: Georgia has closed only bars and nightclubs. See March 23 Order. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate.

Atlanta:

Atlanta has ordered that all nonessential businesses close and that residents of Atlanta stay at home unless engaging in essential activities.

One exception is for residents to leave to work for essential businesses.

Construction is essential infrastructure per the Order. Specifically, individuals may leave their residence to provide any services or perform any work necessary to the operations and maintenance of Essential Infrastructure, including, but not limited to public works, construction, airport operations, utility, water, sewer, gas, electrical, oil refining, roads and highways, railroads, public transportation provided that they carry out those services or that work in compliance with Social Distancing Requirements as defined herein, to the extent possible.

Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate in Atlanta.

Illinois: Illinois ordered the closure of all nonessential businesses. Illinois has also ordered that all residents stay home unless leaving to perform an essential function.

The Order categorizes construction as essential infrastructure. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate and construction workers may go to work.

It specifically includes, but is not limited to: construction required in response to this public health emergency, hospital construction, construction of long-term care facilities, public works construction, and housing construction.

Chicago:

Chicago joined in the announcement of the statewide order, which is more expansive and preempts its local orders.

Maryland: Maryland ordered the closure of all nonessential businesses that are not part of the critical infrastructure sectors identified by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). See CISA Guidance.

As CISA guidance has been used in other states to justify construction related activities as essential it is likely that construction related activities will be permitted to continue in Maryland.

The Governor has ordered that all nonessential businesses close. The order defines nonessential as anything not part of the critical infrastructure sectors identified in the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agencys (CISA) guidance. See attached; https://www.cisa.gov/identifying-critical-infrastructure-during-covid-19 Construction is not a specific category under CISA, but is mentioned in relation to the other categories.

The Maryland Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) published interpretive guidance. The interpretive guidance includes commercial and residential construction companies in the list of businesses that are not required to close under the category of Commercial Facilities.

Note: Maryland has 2x updated its list of businesses that are essential during the week which list now includes title companies, engineers, architects, and nurseries. Please make sure to check these updates for your specific business.

Massachusetts:

Massachusetts ordered the closure of all nonessential businesses.

Generally, construction is essential to critical infrastructure. See Guidance. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate.

Specifically designated as essential are:

Construction workers who support the construction, operation, inspection, and maintenance of construction sites and construction projects (including housing construction);

Workers who support the operation, inspection, and maintenance of essential public works facilities and operations, including roads and bridges, water and sewer main breaks, fleet maintenance personnel, construction of critical or strategic infrastructure, traffic signal maintenance, emergency location services for buried utilities, maintenance of digital systems infrastructure supporting public works operations, and other emergent issues;

Workers including contracted vendors involved in the construction of critical or strategic infrastructure including public works construction, airport operations, water, sewer, gas, electrical, nuclear, oil refining and other critical energy services, roads and highways, public transportation, solid waste collection and removal, and internet, and telecommunications systems (including the provision of essential global, national, and local infrastructure for computing services);

Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, inspectors and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, construction sites and projects, and needed facilities;

Engineers, technicians and associated personnel responsible for infrastructure construction and restoration, including contractors for construction and engineering of fiber optic cables.

Boston:

Boston suspended all regular activity at construction sites.

Boston provided the following guidance:

Employers should maintain the necessary crews to keep their sites safe and secure, keep any materials from blowing away, and prevent trespassing.

After sites have been secured, skeleton crews will be permitted for the remainder of this suspension to ensure safety.

The only work that will be permitted moving forward will be emergency work, which will need to be approved by the City of Bostons Inspectional Services Department.

That essential work includes:

emergency utility, road or building work, such as gas leaks, water leaks and sinkholes new utility connections to occupied buildings mandated building or utility work work at public health facilities, healthcare facilities, shelters, including temporary shelters and other facilities that support vulnerable populations work which ensures the reliability of the transportation network, and other work necessary to render occupied residential buildings fully habitable.

Boston has a process to review requests for exceptions to the temporary construction moratorium. These may be granted by the Commissioner of Inspectional Services for building-related work or the Commissioner of Public Works for street-related work. These will be granted if they support increased public health and safety. Notwithstanding this helpful process, the Commonwealths Executive Order specifically overrides any municipal order to the contrary, and, as such the Governors Executive Order provides the critical guidance on this issue (see above construction is generally essential).

Nevada: Nevada ordered the closure of nonessential businesses that either promote recreational gatherings or promote extended periods of public interaction where risk of transmission is high.

The Order specifically permits the construction labor force to continue operating, though it must adopt social distancing measures. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate.

Las Vegas:

Las Vegas listed construction as an essential business, per the Governors Order.

New Jersey: New Jersey ordered the closure of all brick-and-mortar premises of non-essential retail businesses, as well as recreational and entertainment businesses and restaurants and bars.

New Jerseys order does not apply to the construction industry. The state further clarified that heavy construction and other commercial operations may continue to operate, but should limit onsite staff to essential operations. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate.

New York : New York ordered the closure of all nonessential businesses.

In general, construction is an essential industry. See Guidance. The guidance INITIALLY and specifically includes:

Skilled trades such as electricians, plumbers; Other related construction firms and professionals for essential infrastructure or for emergency repair and safety purposes.

That initial guidance was modified today, March 27th : https://esd.ny.gov/guidance-executive-order-2026. Under the revised guidance:

9. Construction

All non-essential construction must shut down except emergency construction, (e.g. a project necessary to protect health and safety of the occupants, or to continue a project if it would be unsafe to allow to remain undone until it is safe to shut the site).

Essential construction may continue and includes roads, bridges, transit facilities, utilities, hospitals or health care facilities, affordable housing, and homeless shelters. At every site, if essential or emergency non-essential construction, this includes maintaining social distance, including for purposes of elevators/meals/entry and exit. Sites that cannot maintain distance and safety best practices must close and enforcement will be provided by the state in coordination with the city/local governments. This will include fines of up to $10,000 per violation.

For purposes of this section construction work does not include a single worker, who is the sole employee/worker on a job site.

Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate but only if they fall into the above specific exempt categories.

New York City:

The city has adopted the Governors Order.

Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania has ordered the closure of all non-life-sustaining businesses.

Construction, as a general category, is not life-sustaining per Pennsylvanias published list of industry types. See Guidance.

The state is permitting construction BUT only for emergency repairs and to construction of health care facilities. Therefore, construction companies may not operate unless they fall under an exception or obtain a waiver from the state.

Philadelphia:

Philadelphia ordered that certain businesses close and initially permitted construction through March 27th. Furthermore, Philadelphia is currently under a state-ordered stay-at-home order, but there is an exception for workers traveling to and working for life-sustaining businesses.

Texas: Texas has closed only bars, dining, and gyms. See March 19 Order. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate.

Various localities in Texas have enacted expansive business restrictions. As with all states, it is important to analyze local law to determine if there are restrictions for business operations.

Virginia: Virginia has only ordered the closure of specific types of recreational and entertainment businesses. See March 23 Order. Therefore, construction companies may continue to operate.

See the article here:
Construction Activity in the Covid-19 Era: Essential Activity or Non-Essential Activity? - Lexology

Special Report

Grant Suneson, John Harrington

As of 2009, more than half of the worlds population lived in urban areas. By 2050, the U.N. projects that two out of every three people live in an urban area. This ongoing shift to big cities could fundamentally change the way we think about many critical issues, like disease control. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted one of the potential drawbacks of living in a highly dense megacity, defined as having populations greater than 10 million.

People in close proximity are more likely to catch and spread the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. Health experts believe New York City has been especially hard-hit by the virus because of its U.S.-leading population density of 28,000 residents per square mile, in addition to the high number of international tourists and its reliance on public transportation. The tourism industry like others has grinded to a halt as a result, however. These are the US industries being devastated by the coronavirus.

The susceptibility of these cities to this and other viruses also depends in large part on the response by national and local governments. In early February, China restricted entry to megacities Tianjin, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. India, home to a number of megacities on this list, instituted a nationwide lockdown in late march. The response to the coronavirus in America has been more fragmented, directed by state and local leaders. Many have shut down non-essential businesses like bars and restaurants. These are the places that have mandated bar and restaurant closings.

To identify the worlds 33 megacities, 24/7 Wall St. used The Worlds Cities in 2018, the latest edition of the U.N.s biennial population data booklet. All data on population, population projections, and the percentage of a nations population residing in urban areas are from this source.

It is important to note that there are no standard global criteria for determining the boundaries of a city for the purpose of population studies. Some estimates look only at the population inside a citys administrative boundaries, known as the city proper population. Other population measures include surrounding suburban communities that have economic ties to a nearby urban core but can stretch for hundreds of square miles through small farming communities and national parks.

Click here to see the worlds 33 mega citiesClick here to see our detailed findings and methodology

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The Worlds 33 Megacities - 24/7 Wall St.

Key Centers Sewage Woes

I read with interest your story on Key Centers sewage woes (Wastewater Treatment Limits Business Growth, KP News, March 2020). I spend a fair amount of time on water quality and sewage issues as we at Taylor Shellfish Co. work to protect water quality in shellfish growing areas.

We faced a similar situation years ago in the towns of Edison and Blanchard adjacent to Samish Bay. Edison is a small rural community where sewers were potentially cost-prohibitive due to the small number of hookups.

There was an enthusiastic group of Edison residents that formed the Edison Sewerage Committee with a tremendous we can resolve this spirit.

Blanchard was a little more light-hearted but no less serious about finding a solution. They formed the Blanchard Poop Group. Taylor contributed some seed money to the groups for research and organizing efforts.

I helped write a grant to secure a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant that paid up to $23,000 per household if they qualified as low to moderate income to install new septic systems.

Blanchard installed 29 new septic systems, 27 of which were paid for by the grant.

Because the lot sizes in Edison were too small for new septic systems, they ended up installing what is referred to as a septic tank effluent pumping (STEP) system. Every residence in town got a new watertight septic tank, paid for with grant funds for qualified recipients.

Edison installed sewers in the town with 2-inch pipe, which is possible when moving only liquids and far more cost effective than 12-inch lines and pumps to move solids. The 2-inch lines went to a gravel filter, ultraviolet sterilization and a drain field at the new elementary school, which also needed a new septic system.

All that to say, Pierce County and Key Center leaders might benefit from a tour of Edison and connecting with folks who lead that effort.

Bill Dewey, Director of Public Affairs

Taylor Shellfish Co.

View original post here:
Letters to the editor - Keypennews

By JOHN HOWELL

Its a bittersweet celebration for homeowners in the Phase III section of Governor Francis sewers. After years of waiting and about 18 months of torn up roads and earth moving equipment crossing the neighborhood, they finally have sewers and are capable of making connections.

Then theres the matter of what started arriving in mailboxes last week the bill.

The assessment for each property owner the total cost of the project divided by the number properties with service connection capability is $24,399.39. The assessment really doesnt come as a surprise. Even before streets were marked to indicate where gas and water lines were buried, assessments were projected at more than $20,000.

It was the timing of the bills and the injustice of it all assessments for Phase 1 and Phase 2 of Governor Francis sewers are substantially less that set off a brush fire of social media complaints and a press release from Mark Cardarelli.

Cardarelli pointed out that the first of the annual installments a $1,700 payment reflecting a 3.418 percent annual interest rate to be charged on the unpaid principal for a term of 20 years was due in April. Observing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on businesses and how employees are being laid off, he wrote, many state and local leaders are looking into ways to mitigate the financial impact on local communities and the state at large

That all changed quickly. Within hours of the press release being forwarded to the mayors office, the Beacon was informed that the mayors action to extend property tax and utility payments until June also applied to sewer assessments.

A follow-up email from the mayors office on Wednesday reads, The notices that residents recently received in the mail are not bills. Rather, they are notice to ensure residents are aware of the entire cost of each homes sewer connection, and homeowners have up to 20 years to pay for the full assessment cost. The actual bills will be processed and mailed in mid-April (and Mayor Solomon has granted extensions for all tax deadlines).

Thats of some consolation, although it doesnt lessen the overall amount of the assessment, which Cardarelli fears may now be etched in stone. Like Ward 5 Councilman Ed Ladouceur, Cardarelli finds it unfair that property owners should be paying for the repaving of streets at the conclusion of a sewer project when the city as a whole benefits from those roads. In addition, he believes National Grid, which took advantage of the open trenches to upgrade gas lines, is paying a portion of the repaving, although that credit isnt coming off the assessment.

But instead of the city saying, Hey, we can reduce the cost (to the homeowner), they used that money elsewhere, said Cardarelli.

Furthermore, after looking at the list of streets repaved last year, he believes the city is purposely avoiding projects in the ward even though those roads are not within the area of sewer construction. He said there was not a single city paid-for road repaving in Ward 1 last year.

Delays by city government, delays in construction, arbitrary re-allocation to other projects of earmarked funds initially authorized for Governor Francis sewer work all threaten to leave Phase III residents with bills for 100 percent of the cost," Cardarelli writes.

In response to the question of shared cost of repaving, the release from the mayors office reads: The have been questions as to whether National Grid contributed to the paving costs. It is important to note that the Rhode Island Utility Fair Share Roadway Repair Act was passed in July of 2019; with the passage of that Act, public utilities are now required to repave and repair the roadway to the satisfaction of the state or municipality controlling the road. However, at the time of Phase III of the Governor Francis Farms Sewer Project, public utilities were required by law to put a permanent patch in the road. National Grid did do this. The gas lines were installed knowing that the sewer project was going to happen, but Grid was not required at the time to pave half of the road.

Additionally, it reads, There have also been questions regarding the cost of road paving in the project. The cost of road paving is a minor cost driver in this project, since the final paving cost makes up approximately nine percent of the project. The rest of the cost is for the installation of sewer pipe, manholes, forcemain, and a pumping station.

Cardarelli manages a Facebook page with about 168 members to get out information on the sewer project. Questions are also posted on the page, which he hopes Earl Bond, director of the Warwick Sewer Authority, will answer.

As for his personal situation, Cardarelli said he has a reasonably new septic system that is functional and he has no immediate plans to tie into the sewers. He notes that making the connection would be an additional $2,000 to $3,000 plus quarterly usage fees that are based on water consumption.

Cardarelli finds the method of assessments where all property owners equally share the cost of a project fairer than the linear foot system it replaced several years ago as a result of the sewer review commission Ladouceur founded and chaired. That system was based on the linear footage of a property on a line and set periodically by the sewer authority. The commissions work also resulted in capping the interest on assessment payments at no more than 1.25 percent more than what the authority was able to borrow the money for and providing for a 30-year payment plan. The 30-year plan only applies in those cases where the authority is able to bond a project for 30 years. In the case of Governor Francis III, the authority obtained a 20-year note from the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank utilizing State Revolving Fund capital.

Read more from the original source:
Gov. Francis Farms finally get sewers ... and the bill - Warwick Beacon

Theres never been a better time to plug into free content. If cabin fever has you doing some impromptu remodeling or long-put-off yard work, podcasts make perfect companions. These local RSS feeds let us listen in on diverse San Antonians who at least sound like theyre all in the same room.

All My Hexes

All My Hexes is an actual-play tabletop gaming podcast that makes out-of-this-world horror feel very close to home even eerily quaint at times. Listeners can join four quirky investigators as they role-play their way through weird happenings in the fictional oil-boom town of Hext, Texas the kind of town where you can blink and miss it if youre driving down the highway. Game master and writer Bernetta McFergus has been professionally running RPGs in San Antonio for years, but the idea for Hext came from her experience ghost hunting throughout South Texas. By using the Monster of the Week ruleset which involves much fewer dice rolls than Dungeons & Dragons the show feels less like a game and more like an improvised radio play. Right now, the Hext gang is releasing bonus weekly episodes of a previously Patreon-exclusive storyline while they get a virtual table set-up for their next adventure. New episodes drop Wednesdays and are available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher and other podcatchers. allmyhexes.simplecast.com.

Comedia A Go-GoPresents Public Axis

You know those twisted conversations you have with only your closest friends that end up being really funny in a way that can never see the light of day? Comedia A Go-Go members Larry Garza, Jess Castro and Regan Arevalos have done something like that every third Friday of the month in front of a live audience at Blind Tiger Comedy Club and recorded it. The result is Public Axis, a roundtable discussion podcast featuring guest comedians, filmmakers and various artists spinning out unfiltered thoughts on nerdtastic subjects in pop culture, video games, science news and nostalgia. Naturally, new recordings arent happening right now, but CAGG has yet to release a handful of their latest shows. The casts are available at Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and other major podcatchers, with new episodes exclusively at oneofus.net. The Problem Attic

It stands to reason that interesting people have interesting problems. Thats the premise of comedian Zach Dicksons recently launched The Problem Attic, which he calls the worst advice podcast ever. At some point in each episode, Dickson asks his guests mostly Texan comedians and other entertainment personalities whats wrong with them, which inevitably leads to copious tangents and first-hand accounts of bad decisions. Are lessons learned? Maybe. But as Dickson says: Its the problem attic, not an answer cellar. Dickson has been releasing two episodes a week since February 5 and shows no signs of slowing, so this pod should make for perfect binging. No set release schedule. Available at Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, Stitcher and other major podcatchers.

Willful Ignorance Podcast

If youve ever wanted insight into the world of stand-up, the Willful Ignorance Podcast lets you sink into a virtual couch and chill with some of the funniest people in Texas. Joshua Cabaza and George Anthonys wide range of guest comic offer insights into the funny biz, and the two have worked together to bring even more laughs to the Lone Star State. Their video sketch collabs led them to found a recurring film competition Battle of the Sketches, in which they pit entries against each other in a live Battle Royale tour of U.S. cities, including a final round sponsored by Alamo Drafthouse in Austin. Their YouTube channel FMCW Studios also showcases a plethora of sketch comedy, including animated web series Blair and the Bear. New episodes on Thursdays. Available at Apple Podcasts, YouTube, SoundCloud and other major podcatchers.

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Read this article:
Pod People: San Antonio-based Podcasts That Can Help You While Away the Time in Quarantine - San Antonio Current

While youre probably spending more time at home this weekend to help stop the spread of COVID-19, it could be the perfect opportunity to prepare for upcoming severe storms.

As Severe Weather Awareness Week emphasized the importance of family preparedness and knowing what to do when a severe thunderstorm or tornado occurs, Adair and Guthrie County Emergency Management Deputy Coordinator Jeremy Cooper says its just as important to think of what happens after the storm, Every year when were out doing our storm spotting after a severe wind event or a tornado lets say we find peoples trampolines or lawn furniture thats been blown around. And thats a good time when you have that watch that morning that was issued to go out and maybe tie down that trampoline or put away that lawn furniture, because thats one less thing of your property there that youre going to lose.

Cooper also recommends cutting down or trimming trees in your yard that may be in danger of falling on your home during a high-wind event. Some proactive measures to take in case of flood damage include moving valuable items to higher levels of your house, decluttering drains and gutters, installing check valves, considering a battery-powered sump pump, and purchasing or renewing your flood insurance policy with the National Flood Insurance Program.

See the rest here:
Prepare Your Home for Severe Weather this Spring - raccoonvalleyradio.com

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Below is a list of planning applications received by Sedgemoor District Council between March 12 and March 18, 2020.

BADGWORTH

03/20/00004: Tarnock House Farm, Biddisham Lane, Biddisham, Axbridge, Somerset, BS26 2RG: Variation of condition 2 of planning permission 03/19/00007 (Demolition of Stones Throw and workshop. Erection of a detached garage/store and conversion of existing stable block to living accommodation) to align position of garage/store with northern boundary and to include a window to the east elevation on the garage.

BRENT KNOLL

07/20/00003: St Austin, Station Road, Brent Knoll, Highbridge, Somerset, TA9 4BH: Erection of a first floor side extension to East elevation, over existing single storey side extension

BRIDGWATER

08/20/00049: 8 Fore Street, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 3NF: Retrospective application for the installation of 2no. internally illuminated LED screens within the front (SE) window.

08/20/00027: Unit 1, Bridgwater Retail Park, The Leggar, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 4AB: Display of 1 No. non-illuminated fascia sign and 1no. internally illuminated fascia sign.

08/20/00050: Unit G1, Beech Business Park, Bristol Road, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 4FF: Proposed change of use from Use Class B1/B2/B8 to use as a fitness gym (Use Class D2)

08/20/00047: Land At, Northgate, Bridgwater, Somerset: Variation of Condition 23 of Planning Permissiom 08/18/00155 (Erection of a building to form a foodstore (Use Class A1) (1,580sqm gross floor area) with associated access, car parking and landscaping.) to allow the store to receive deliveries between 06:00-00:00 on all days.

08/20/00020: 65 St Mary Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3EL: Removal of render to front elevation to take back to original brickwork. Alterations to gutter & downpipes, patio, rear door and velux windows

08/20/00053: 29 Dunkery Road, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7LP: Erection of a single storey extension to rear (SW) elevation.

BRIDGWATER WITHOUT

09/20/00003: Greens Farm, Chedzoy Lane, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA7 8QR: Notification of the creation of a reinforced conctrete yard area for agricultural storage purposes.

BURNHAM & HIGHBRIDGE

11/20/00020: 22A The Grove, Burnham On Sea, Somerset, TA8 2PA: Erection of a single storey extension to rear (SE) elevation to create annex accommodation.

11/20/00008: The Old Pier Tavern, Pier Street, Burnham On Sea, Somerset, TA8 1BT: Change of use from pub (Use Class A4) to a mixed use pub, restaurant and takeaway (Use Classes A3, A4 & A5) to include the demolition of part of front of building and installation of extraction unit.

11/20/00022: 10 Jubilee Street, Burnham On Sea, Somerset, TA8 1PT: Application to determine if prior approval is required for the erection of a single storey extension extending 3.55m from the rear (East) elevation

11/20/00023: 67A Burnham Road, Highbridge, Somerset, TA9 3JG: Erection of a two storey link attached extension, to SW elevation, on site of existing garage/store (to be demolished).

CANNINGTON

13/20/00005: 54 Chads Hill, Cannington, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2LX: Erection of a detached single storey timber framed garage.

CHEDDAR

17/20/00016: Unit A, Winchester Farm, Draycott Road, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3RP: Retention of first floor flat to be occupied by caretaker/security guard for the business park.

17/20/00018: Land to North of, B3135, Cheddar Gorge, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27: Erection of an information board and timber supporting posts.

CHEDZOY

18/20/00002: Manor Barn, Manor Road, Chedzoy, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA7 8QZ: Variation of Condition 2 of Planning Permission 18/19/00005 (Erection of 1 No. dwelling with parking area and partial demolition and conversion of barn to ancillary outbuilding) to amend the approved plans to change the external materials.

COMPTON BISHOP

21/19/00015: Over Compton, Vicarage Lane, Compton Bishop, Axbridge, Somerset, BS26 2HL: Change of use of land from agricultural to residential and erection of outbuilding. Erection of a single storey to the rear (SE) elevations

EAST BRENT

24/20/00004: Rookery Manor, Rookery Farm, Edingworth Road, Edingworth, Weston-super-mare, Somerset, BS24 0JB: Change of use of hotel bedroom accomodation and housekeeping store to 3 No. apartments

MARK

33/20/00006: Rose Cottage, Little Moor Road, Mark, Highbridge, TA9 4NJ: Erection of a single storey extension to side (West) elevation.

33/20/00005: Poolbridge Farm, Poolbridge Road, Blackford, Wedmore, Somerset, BS28 4PA: Replacement of existing single glazed windows to rear (SE) and side (SW & NE) elevations with Slimlite double glazed units in a more traditional glazing pattern.

NORTH PETHERTON

37/20/00021: 4 St Marys Crescent, North Petherton, Bridgwater, TA6 6RA: Erection of a two storey extension to side (SE) elevation, on site of existing (to be demolished), erection of a single storey extension to rear (SW) elevation and erection ofa porch to front (NE) elevation.

PURITON

42/20/00011: 14 Hillside Crescent, Puriton, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA7 8AP: Erection of a single storey extension to rear (East) elevation, erection of a two storey extension to side (South) elevation on site of existing (to be demolished) and erection of a porch to front (West) elevation.

STOCKLAND BRISTOL

47/20/00001: Land At, Steart Penisula, Steart Drove, Steart, Bridgwater, Somerset: Demolition of existing toilet block and erection of a building to serve as an engagement hub for WWT Steart Marshes.

WEDMORE

50/20/00017: Holly Cottage, Snake Lane, Bagley, Wedmore, Somerset, BS28 4TE: Erection of a part single storey, part two-storey extension to side (NE) elevation, on site of existing (to be demolished).

WEMBDON

51/20/00009: Land to the North of, Waldrons Lane, Wembdon, Bridgwater: Formation of 2 No. agricultural accesses.

WEST HUNTSPILL

52/20/00006: 3 Grove Road, West Huntspill, Highbridge, Somerset, TA9 3RS: Erection of conservatory to rear (north) elevation.

WESTONZOYLAND

53/20/00003: Sedgemoor Karting, Langport Road, Westonzoyland, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA7 0JS: Variation of Condition 7 of Planning Permission 53/19/00010 (Retrospective application for the change of use of former airfield from a go-kart track to stockpiling of washed stone chippings, the temporary storage of plant and equipment, parking of vehicles and siting of welfare units and alterations to existing access in connection with top-surfacing of highways.) to allow temporary sleeping accommodation for workers on site during the period when carrying out top dressing on the roads.

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See the planning applications for your area - Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News