The declaration took effect at noon and will remain in place until April 7.

“It is important for the public to know that this situation is serious and that their local government is taking steps to protect the public and ensure the continuation of essential services,” Larking said.

In conjunction with this declaration, the City announces the following actions:

• The City of Danville will temporarily suspend the disconnection of utility services for late payment during the state of emergency. The Charles H. Harris Financial Service Center remains open for business as usual, but citizens are encouraged to use one of the various payment methods that do not involve face-to-face contact and avoid coming into the financial center if possible. Customers have the options of online payment, payment by mail, payment at the drive-thru window, and payment at the dropbox (during and after work hours but no cash allowed).
• All business travel for employees is suspended unless approved by the City Manager’s Office.
• The City is exploring work-at-home options for certain employees and modifying leave rules in order to slow the spread of the disease and ensure the availability of City workers to deliver essential services.
• We have implemented social-distancing for workplace protocols, which limit the number of face-to-face meetings.
• Our first responders and front line employees are taking steps to protect themselves from exposure, including the use of personal protective equipment.
• We have stepped up our cleaning and disinfecting protocols in our public buildings.
• The Rubie B. Archie Library and indoor Parks and Recreation facilities remain closed to the public.
• Outdoor facilities including parks and the RiverWalk Trail will remain open.