3.13
COVID-19 PANDEMIC RESPONSE PLAN (Plan)
Town of Queensbury, NY
Adopted by Town Board: Monday, March 16, 2020
Revised Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Revised Monday, March 23, 2020
Revised Monday, April 6, 2020
Revised Monday, April 20, 2020
Revised Monday, May 4, 2020
In effect: Monday, March 16 to Monday, May 15, 2020
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 1
INTENT & PURPOSE PAGE 2
LEGISLATIVE ENACTIONS PAGE 2
COVID-19 PLAN PLANNING MEETINGS PAGE 2
BUILDING ACCESS LIMITATIONS PAGE 2-3
TOWN OFFICE AND HIGHWAY BUILDINGS PAGE 2
WATER BUILDING PAGE 3
DEPARTMENT CONTACT INFORMATION – TOWN & PUBLIC PAGE 3
PROTOCOLS PAGE 3-5
MEETING CANCELLATIONS PAGE 5
TOWN BOARD MEETINGS PAGE 5
EMPLOYEE HEALTH PAGE 5-6
DEPARTMENT DISCUSSIONS PAGE 7-11
SECURITY PAGE 7
WATER/WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT PAGE 7
TOWN COURT PAGE 8
HIGHWAY PAGE 8
TOWN CLERK PAGE 8-9
ACCOUNTING PAGE 9
ACTIVITES CENTER PAGE 9
PARKS & RECREATION PAGE 9
BUILDING & CODES PAGE 10-11
TRANSFER STATIONS PAGE 11
POSTERS/SIGNS PAGE 11-12
MUNICIPAL CONSTRUCTION PAGE 12
MASK DISTRIBUTIONS PAGE 13
FIRE AND EMS PAGE 13
TOWN/DEPARTMENT PLANS PAGE 13-15
TELEMEDICINE/LIVE HEALTH ON LINE PAGE 15
COVID-19 SANITATION PLAN PAGE 15-16
EMPLOYEE WORK-FROM-HOME POLICY PAGE 16-17
IT/PHONES PAGE 17
OTHER PAGE 18
HELPFUL WEBSITES PAGE 18-19
POST PANDEMIC PLAN - DRAFT PAGE 19-20
APPENDIX A PAGE 21-22
APPENDIX B PAGE 23-24
APPENDIX C PAGE 25
APPENDIX D PAGE 26
APPENDIX E PAGE 27
APPENDIX F PAGE 28
APPENDIX G PAGE 29
APPENDIX H PAGE 30
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INTENT & PURPOSE
In an effort to keep our workers, visitors and residents healthy, and mitigate the migration of
COVID-19, Town Board and Town Managers have developed policy and protocol in regards to
restricting building use and on-campus social gatherings.
LEGISLATIVE ENACTIONS
May 4, 2020, Town Board resolution ratifying adoption of May 4, 2020 revised Plan.
April 20, 2020, Town Board resolution ratifying adoption of April 20, 2020 revised Plan.
April 6, 2020, Town Board resolution ratifying adoption of April 6, 2020 revised Plan.
March 23, 2020, Town Board resolution ratifying adoption of March 23, 2020 revised
Plan.
March 18, 2020, 11:15 AM the Town Supervisor issued a Declaration of a State of
Emergency, in accord with New York State Executive law Section 24; in order to take
whatever steps are necessary to protect life and property, public infrastructure and
provide such emergency assistance deemed necessary in the Town of Queensbury
related to the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic and the threat of travel-related
cases and community contact transmission of COVID-19.
March 16, 2020. Town Board Resolution recognizing the pandemic and need to adopt
plan – COVID-19 Pandemic Response Plan to help deal with this emergency situation.
Authorizes Town Supervisor to make modifications to the Plan as he determines that in
his discretion are necessary as the situation changes and further information becomes
known.
COVID-19 PLAN PLANNING MEETINGS
March 16, 2020. Emergency Town Board/Department Managers meeting.
March 17, 2020. Emergency Town Board/Department Managers meeting
Attendees: Town Board members, Department Managers, CSEA Representative, Safety
Officer, Activities Center Management, Town Supervisor Executive Assistant, Town
Court Judges and Others.
BUILDING ACCESSS LIMITATIONS
TOWN OFFICE AND HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT BUILDINGS:
As of March 17, 2020, closed to the general public, HVAC workers excepted.
Residents are encouraged to do town business via phone, email or website.
All others must make appointments with the department they seek to have business.
See website for contact information.
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WATER BUILDING
Water Department is closed to all outside visitors unless by appointment. Doors will be
locked after 8:30AM.
Public Water Samples will be dropped off in the Vestibule. Private Water Sample will not
be accepted.
DEPARTMENT CONTACT INFORMATION – TOWN & PUBLIC
ASSESSOR – Tammie Landers: 518-761-8244 tammiel@queensbury.net
BUILDING & CODES --Kate Deck: 518-761-8256 kated@queensbury.net
PLANNING/ZONING – Maria Gagliardi: 518-761-8219 mariag@queensbury.net
CLERK – Caroline Barber: 518-761-8234 carolineb@queensbury.net
COUNSEL – Pam Hunsinger: 518-761-8251 pamelah@queensbury.net
ACCOUNTING – JoAnne Watkins: 518-761-8239 joannew@queensbury.net
PARKS & REC – Main #: 518-761-8216
SUPERVISOR – Victoria: 518-761-8229 victorial@queensbury.net
PROTOCOLS: TOWN FACILITIES, EMPLOYEES AND TOWN-RELATED ACTIVITIES
From this day forward, until otherwise permitted, the following protocols will be followed:
Every effort will be made to maintain the recommended six foot social distancing.
Employee gatherings that violate recommended social distancing are prohibited.
In accord with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), employees who
have symptoms of acute respiratory illness are recommended to stay home and not
come into work until they are free of fever (100.4 F or greater using an oral
thermometer), sign of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without
the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough
suppressants). Employees should notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick.
Committee meetings or more than four six attendees in the Supervisor’s Conference
Room will be prohibited. Of course, remote meetings/conferences are permitted and
encouraged. (Live streaming of meetings is being investigated)
Town Board (including workshops) meetings will be held in the Activities Center:
o One person at a time only will be permitted to use the public microphone.
Sanitized wipes will be located adjacent to the microphone and the most recent
user will be asked to wipe the microphone and take the wipe with them when
finished.
o An additional table will be added to accommodate additional distance between
Town Board members.
o Public will be encouraged to view the Town Board meeting’s resolutions on line,
town website.
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Other meetings of town employees/visitors/etc. are allowed but limited to six, if a
distance of about 6 foot separation can be maintained.
o Any town functions that could violate the social distancing standard are
prohibited, that includes cookouts, department meetings, etc.
Department Managers will work with the Town’s Building & Grounds Department to
assure that all door knobs and handles that are used by employees/visitors/etc. are
periodically sterilized.
All counters and desk tops accessible and used by the public:
o Must be wiped sterilized periodically.
o Must post signage that informs visitors that social distancing standard of six foot
is to be followed; whether in line or at the counter.
Avoid sharing pens and pencils.
When cash money or documents transfer occur, sterilize hands immediately after and
before next transaction.
COVID-19 related information posters will be placed in prominent places on all public
access doors and employee work areas.
Employees who have fever, cough, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath or bluish
lips or face should stay home and avoid public places.
Employees who are at risk because of pre-existing illness, family illnesses that need
attending to, and those employees who may have been in contact with an infected
person will be asked to remain home and will not be on call in list.
Employees will avoid touching others, sharing dishes, glasses, cups, eating utensils,
towels and pets.
Employees will regularly wash hands with use soap and water and hand sanitizer:
Especially before and after eating; after sneezing, coughing or nose blowing; after using
the restroom; before handling food; after touching or cleaning surfaces that may be
contaminated; after using shared equipment and supplies.
Employees will be accommodated if:
o In accord with the Governor’s
o COVID-19 related school closings require home care of their young children
and/or they or other family members need care because of their COVID-19
sickness or accommodation.
We now have available for employee and visitor use a digital no-touch thermometer. If
you would wish to have an employee temperature check, please stop by the Town
Office building atrium where you will notice a table, on that table is the thermometer,
and some sanitizing wipes; aside the table is a trash basket. Please sanitize the
thermometer before and after using and dispose of the wipes. The average human
temperature is 98.6 +/- degrees Fahrenheit. If your temperature is 101 degrees
Fahrenheit or higher, you have a fever. Please be safe!
EFFECTIVE FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2020, EMPLOYEES MUST WEAR FACIAL COVERINGS WHEN
SOCIAL DISTANCE IS NOT LIKELY TO BE MAINTAINED
o Governor’s Executive Order No. 202.16: Continuing Temporary Suspension and
Modification of Laws Relating to the Disaster Emergency.
For all essential businesses or entities, any employees who are present in the
workplace shall be provided and shall wear face coverings when in direct contact
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with customers or members of the public. Businesses must provide, at their
expense, such face coverings for their employees. This provision may be
enforced by local governments or local law enforcement as if it were an order
pursuant to section 12 or 12-b of the Public Health Law. This requirement shall
be effective Wednesday, April 15 at 8 p.m.
o “Direct interaction with the public shall be determined by the employer, but, at a
minimum, shall include any employee who is routinely within close contact (i.e.
six feet or less) with members of the public, including but not limited to
customers or clients.”
MEETING CANCELLATIONS
We plan to initiate one meeting for each (Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals)
for the end of May: May 20 for the ZBA and May 27 for the PB.
TOWN BOARD MEETINGS
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT
QUEENSBURY TOWN BOARD MEETING
When: Monday, May 4, 2020, 7 PM
Where: Activities Center building, 742 Bay Road, Queensbury, NY 12804
Town Board members and a Town Clerk will be present at this meeting being held in the Town’s
Activities Center.
The public will be allowed to attend and be allowed to make comments to the Town Board
during Privilege of the Floor portions of the meeting; however, on-site attendees must abide by
the Town’s posted COVID-19 rules.
The Town is also accommodating those who wish to view and participate remotely:
To view live please visit: Town of Queensbury YouTube Live.
To make comments during Privilege of the Floor call 518-761-8225. NOTE: To assure the
integrity and validity of the public comments, the only calls that will be recognized will
be those that show a caller identification.
The Town wishes to remind its residents that public comments can be shared with Town Board
members by phone and email.
ALSO: LOOK MEDIA video tapes and airs the Town of Queensbury Town Board meeting three
times a week: Tuesdays at 8:00 PM; Wednesdays at 2:30 PM; Sundays at 10:00 AM.
See APPENDIX H
EMPLOYEE HEALTH
Employees are being instructed to not report to work if they are sick. If ill, stay home
and report such to your Department Manager.
Employees who are at risk because of pre-existing illness, family illnesses that need
attending to, and those employees who may have been in contact with an infected
person will be asked to remain home and will not be on call in list.
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Town Managers will make their department’s employees informed as to the following:
o Town employees are encouraged to take advantage of virtual doctor visits,
available through their health plan if they require medical services for common
health conditions.
o The New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) issued a directive
requiring private health insurers in New York to make COVID-19 testing free
for patients by waiving any out-of-pocket costs. This includes any fees
associated with testing for novel coronavirus including emergency room,
urgent care and office visits to an in-network health care provider for the
purpose of being tested for COVID-19. On March 11, 2020 the IRS issued
Notice 2020-15 advising that High Deductible Health Plans (HDHP’s) can pay
for COVID-19 testing and treatment before plan deductibles have been met.
All copays related to COVID-19 testing and treatment will be reimbursed, if not
waived by the provider.
We now have available for employee and visitor use a digital no-touch
thermometer. If you would wish to have an employee temperature check, please
stop by the Town Office building atrium where you will notice a table, on that table
is the thermometer, and some sanitizing wipes; aside the table is a trash basket.
Please sanitize the thermometer before and after using and dispose of the wipes.
The average human temperature is 98.6 +/- degrees Fahrenheit. If your temperature
is 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, you have a fever. Please be safe!
What if a Town employee suspects they have COVID-19? How would that impact their fellow
workers? If possible, the employee should try and obtain confirmation of COVID-19.
Employees who suspect they may have COVID-19 should begin by contacting their doctor or
going to www.livehealthonlinne.com and complete the registration. Once registered, the
employee will be able to video visit a doctor online all within the privacy and safety of your
home. Please call all toll free at 1-888-LiveHealth (548-3432) or email
help@livehealthonline.com if you have any problems registering.
Note: Employees and Management should abide by Centers for Disease Control’s, “Steps to
help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick” (see APPENDIX A) and NYS Department of
Health‘s, “Guidance on the Contacts of a Close or Proximate Contact of a Confirmed or
Suspected Case of COVID-19” (see APPENDIX B).
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DEPARTMENT DISCUSSIONS
SECURITY
The public intending to use the Town Office building will be restricted to using the
northern front entry, the entry monitored by security.
Town Security will account for the visiting public; in that each person attending will be
documented, this includes the following: name, destination, and time entering and
leaving. All visitors as of March 19, 2020 will be expected to make appointments prior to
their visit to the announced limited access buildings.
All departments who have appointments will share those with security; please supply
security with the following information: who, what time, etc.
Will visually observe persons entering the building; Fever, cough, difficulty breathing or
shortness of breath or bluish lips or face may be symptoms of COVID-19. At a distance of
6 feet, security will interview the suspect. If, through observation and interview, it is
determined that the visitor may be ill, they will be asked to leave the premises.
Screening questions:
o Do you have a fever and/or respiratory symptoms, like a cough or difficulty
breathing?
o Did you travel outside the US in the last 14 days?
o Did you have contact with someone with possible COVID-19 in the past 14 days?
WATER/WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT
Water Department is closed to all outside visitors unless by appointment. Doors will be
locked after 8:30AM
Public Water Samples will be dropped off in the Vestibule. Private Water Sample will not
be accepted.
Installing/changing out meters in private residences will be prohibited.
The public will be allowed to drop samples off, filing for permits and apply for water
service if the above practices are abided by.
The water department must remain manned, therefore will have to adopt proper
practices that will limit COVID-19 exposure and at the same time insure its role in Public
Health.
The Town’s COVID-19 Response Plan was distributed Tuesday to all water and
wastewater employees.
All doors are locked except for one entry – to enable the reception of municipal water
samples.
Employees asked to abide by social distancing and Response Plan.
New customers and seasonal install of meters will be allowed (other than meter
emergencies)
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TOWN COURT
In light of the State of Emergency declared by Governor Cuomo regarding the COVID-19
virus and pursuant to the recommendations and Order of Chief Administrative Judge
Marks dated Sunday March 15, 2020, and related orders thereafter the Queensbury
Town Court is postponing all non-essential court functions through at least April 13,
2020 and adopting the following procedure: Effective immediately, and continuing
through April 13, 2020, with the exception of the events listed below, all in-person court
events for civil and criminal dockets are adjourned and will be rescheduled EXCEPT:
Arraignments or matters involving Order of Protection, Hearings, or other proceedings
granted on motion in consultation with the Administrative Judge. If you are scheduled
for any matters including Arraignment, contact the court at the number posted below
for information on how to proceed. The above matters may be heard in a “Specialty
Part” of the Warren County Courts at 1340 State Route 9.
All other matters, call the number listed below for instructions on how to proceed.
(Also, if you are a party in a case and have an attorney, call your attorney immediately
and report your situation). Please be patient with our expected call volume.
Notices of Adjournment, Appearance, or re-scheduled Court dates will be sent to
attorneys of record or via US mail and, where possible, in accordance with form UCS-
517. If your mailing address needs to be updated with the court, please call the
number: 518-745-5571
The Town Judges continue working with the NYS Court System/Office of Court
Administration (OCA) and the Governor’s Office in an effort to address the abatement of
the migration of COVID-19.
HIGHWAY
Breakroom meeting and other potential group gatherings/occasions must meet the
directives of this Plan.
Two persons per vehicle only.
Administration and all other Highway Department Buildings are closed to the public.
The Town is participating in the Warren County’s mutual highway aid program.
NOTICE POSTED ON TOWN WEBSITE: The Highway Department’s Leaf & Brush Pickup
has been activated by Town Supervisor Order. See APPENDIX F
TOWN CLERK
US Post Office Postmaster contacted. Daily carrier needs to contact the Town Clerk’s
Office upon arrival and be met by a Town Clerk employee to exchange out-going mail
and our in-coming bins. It is the Town Clerk’s position that maintaining the flow of mail
is an “essential” process.
FedEx, UPS, DHL, and USPS* will be asked to call the Town Clerk’s Office prior to
deliveries and an employee will meet them at the front door.
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No new peddlers’ licenses will be issued until the social distancing directive has been
lifted.
ASSESSMENT
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Setting up for on-site active and remote May 26 Grievance Day (9 AM-12 PM & 5 PM–8 PM).
Will be held in the Activities Center and COVID-19 rules will apply. Working with supervisor’s
office, StoredTech and Peter Pepe. Will need use of PA system, phone conference system and
recording of the meeting. Will need to make remote meeting/live streamed.
NEWSPAPER NOTICE
NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLL (Pursuant to Section 506 and 1526
of the Real Property Tax Law)
HEARING OF COMPLAINTS
Notice is hereby given that as of May 1, 2020, the Assessor of the Town of Queensbury, County
of Warren, has completed the Tentative Assessment Roll for the current year, it may be found
on the Town’s website @ www.queensbury.net and can be examined by any interested person
until Grievance Day.
The assessor will be in attendance with the Tentative Assessment Roll at the Town Center, 742
Bay Rd, Queensbury NY available by PHONE appointment ONLY on the following days:
May 7th – 9am to 1pm
May 14 – 10am to 2pm
May 16 – 9am to 1pm
May 21 – 4pm to 8pm
The Board of Assessment Review will meet on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at the Senior Center 742
Bay Rd Queensbury NY from 9am to Noon and 5pm to 8pm by appointment only, to hear and
examine all complaints in relation to assessments of any persons believing to be aggrieved.
Due to the Covid-19 restrictions the Board of Assessment Review hearings will be held either in
person (with restrictions applying) or by phone. The Hearings will be “Live Streamed” on the
Town of Queensbury’s You Tube site. The Board will determine all written Grievance
applications submitted as usual.
Applications for filing a complaint and instructional booklets are available from your assessor.
Please call 518-761-8245 or 518-761-8243 to schedule appointments or for any assistance
needed.
ACCOUNTING
The following rules have been adopted:
Please use the mail box to drop off items for Accounting
Retirees have been notified to mail health insurance payments and to make an
appointment if they need to conduct other business with Accounting as staffing may be
intermittent
VOUCHERS: Please process in multiple batches and leave in mail box. They will be
processed for the next warrant date unless there is an issue.
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PAYROLL: Please finalize by 9am on Mondays, if at all possible. If payroll is locked prior
to you finalizing your Department’s payroll, hours will be paid in the next check. If you
know you are missing hours for an employee, please advise Maura and/or Denise first
thing on Monday.
Use the phone, email and scanning systems to communicate as much as possible
ACTIVITIES CENTER/QUEENSBURY SENIORS
All Queensbury Senior Citizens activities and programs are suspended.
PARKS & REREATION
The department is suspending all scheduled recreational programming and activities
indefinitely. This cancellation includes the remainder of all current programs and any
upcoming programs that may have been slated to begin over the next few weeks to a
month.
Office hours are by appointment only.
All playgrounds are closed, barricaded, and swings are immobilized. Updated protocols
have been established for both employees, athletic fields, trails and park users; social
distancing reminders, organized, group games prohibited. See APPENDIXs C and D.
BUILDING & CODES
WEBSITE NOTICE: IMPORTANT NOTICE: To help ‘flatten the curve’ of COVID-19, the
Building and Code Enforcement department will only accept building permit
submissions via mail (USPS, FedEx, UPS, etc.) or by calling the office to make
arrangements. Invoices will be emailed after building permits have been approved and
are ready for issuance. Once payment is received, the permit will be issued and mailed,
with the receipt, to you. Reviews will take 3-4 weeks and inspections must be scheduled
24-48 hours in advance due to staff alternating days in the office. If you need to come to
the office you must schedule an appointment at least 24-hours in advance and
appointments are only available between 9:00am and 3:00pm. Thank you for your
understanding and help.
ALSO: Governor Cuomo Executive Order No. 202.11, issued March 27, 2020. During the
period when an Executive Order limiting operation of a type of facility or limiting the
number of persons who may occupy any space is in effect, any operation of such a
facility or occupancy of any such space by more than the number of persons allowed by
said Executive Order shall be deemed to be a violation of law and in particular, but not
by way of limitation, shall be deemed to be a violation of the Uniform Code or other local
building code in effect in the jurisdiction in which the facility or space is located. In the
event of any such violation, any state, county, or local police officer authorized to
enforce laws within the jurisdiction in which the space or facility is located is authorized
to remove persons from such space or facility. In addition, in the event of such violation,
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any state, county, or local code enforcement official or fire marshal authorized to
enforce the Uniform Code or other local building code within the jurisdiction in which the
facility or space is located is authorized to issue an appearance ticket, a Notice of
Violation, an Order to Remedy such violation, which shall require immediate compliance,
and/or a Do Not Occupy Order to any owner, operator, or occupant of any such facility
or space. Nothing in this provision shall limit the authority of any governmental unit or
agency to take such other and/or additional enforcement actions to the extent necessary
to ensure compliance with such occupancy-related directives or facility operation-related
directives.
Construction sites are being monitored. Non-essential construction will receive Stop
Work Orders (SWO). Only one contractor allowed on site. Finish up what’s necessary to
preserve the integrity of the building ONLY.
o OTHER LOCAL CONSTRUCTION
New York State Economic State Development Agency (ESD/Michael
Yevoli) has made a determination that the new Route 9 plaza (Subway),
Route 9 Starbucks, Route 149 restaurant and Target at Aviation Mall
construction projects are allowed to continue as essential construction
and therefore inspections can be scheduled when contractors call for
these project inspections. Since they involve restaurants/food it has been
determined that these projects can continue as essential construction.
TRANSFER STATIONS
Because the shortened Transfer Station hours open times appeared to be causing automobile
queuing and more on-site crowding, as of Tuesday, May 5, 2020, the town will be returning to
normal operating hours:
Ridge Road Transfer Station
Tuesday - 7:45 AM to 3:30 AM
Thursday - 7:45 AM to 3:30 AM
Saturday - 7:45 AM to 3:00 AM
Luzerne Road Transfer Station
Wednesday - 7:45 AM to 3:30 AM
Friday - 7:45 AM to 3:30 AM
Saturday - 7:45 AM to 3:30 AM
POSTERS/SIGNS
POSTER #1
o To be placed on Town’s website, Facebook and all doors used by the public:
NOTICE TO VISITING PUBLIC (valid to April 17, 2020)
To better abate the spread of COVID-19, please avoid direct visits
to town facilities.
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Please consider using phone, mail and email, website or
depository box:
o Town phone: (518) 761-8200
o Town address: 742 Bay Road, Queensbury, NY 12804
o Town website: www.queensbury.net
o Town depository box is located adjacent to south entry
Town Office building.
Public use of Town facilities will be strictly limited – if you must
physically visit a town facility, please make an appointment.
POSTER #2 (To be placed in the Activity Center Library on the entry doors)
o NOTICE to activities/meetings being held in Activities Center.
No more than 20 audience attendees at any one time.
6 Foot social distancing must be maintained at all times.
Activities Center Library area must also abide by these rules.
POSTER #3
o Informative/symptoms, etc.
POSTER #4
o STOP, BUILDING CLOSED TO PUBLIC, PLEASE CALL TO MAKE APPOINTMENT
TOWN CLERK NOTICE: If you are here to make a PAYMENT IN CASH for taxes,
water/sewer bills, or dog licenses, please call (518) 761-8234. We will make immediate
arrangements
POSTER on proper use of MASK/FACIAL Covering
POSTER: DEPARTMENT CONTACTS:
o ASSESSOR – Tammie Landers: 518-761-8244 tammiel@queensbury.net
o BUILDING & CODES --Kate Deck: 518-761-8256 kated@queensbury.net
o PLANNING/ZONING – Maria Gagliardi: 518-761-8219 mariag@queensbury.net
o CLERK – Caroline Barber: 518-761-8234 carolineb@queensbury.net
o COUNSEL – Pam Hunsinger: 518-761-8251 pamelah@queensbury.net
o ACCOUNTING – JoAnne Watkins: 518-761-8239 joannew@queensbury.net
o PARKS & REC – Main #: 518-761-8216
o SUPERVISOR – Victoria: 518-761-8229 victorial@queensbury.net
o POSTER: APPENDIX G - Ten Steps All Workplaces can take to Reduce Risk of
Exposure to Coronavirus
MUNICIPAL CONSTRUCTION
Town Board Authorization of Town Highway Garage Capital Construction Project as
Essential; for approval and reasons see Town Board Resolution 146.2020, dated April 6,
2020.
Town Board Authorization Declaration of Town Utility Infrastructure/HVAC
Improvements Capital Project as Essential; for approval and reasons see Town Board
Resolution 145.2020, dated April 6, 2020.
All contractors involved in the above had to provide to the town their plans to be
compliant with COVID-19 pandemic response requirements: Federal/State/local.
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MASK DISTRIBUTIONS – TOWN OF QUEENSBURY
The town received 9,000 masks from the county; thank you to County Administrator Ryan
Moore and Office of Emergency Management’s Brian LaFlure and Amy Hirsch for directing this
supply of mask for Town of Queensbury distribution. They were manufactured by
HHANESbrandsINC. The town announced their availability and distribution method Friday and
Saturday morning (April 24 and 25). The announcement was made through the local newspaper
Post-Star, Channel 13, the Town website and Facebook. Saturday morning Councilpersons Tony
Metivier and Harrison Free began distributing the mask at our two Transfer Stations.
Councilman George Ferone, Town Clerk Caroline Barber and Town Supervisor John Strough
began Town Office distribution about 12:00 PM. The Town’s five fire companies and three EMS
squads had masks set aside for their pickups. Senior centers and big box stores picked up set
asides too. By about 2:23 that afternoon we had distributed most of the 9,000 masks. Thanks to
Planning & Zoning Director Craig brown, Building & Grounds Superintendent Chuck Rice, and
Executive Assistant Victoria LaMarque for their organizing help. Special thanks to Warren
County Sheriff’s Department for their traffic management help. We are very proud of this
successful effort – about 9,000 more folks have access to make their world, and those around
them, much safer and healthier. Many said, “God Bless you,” to our mask organizers and
distributers.
FIRE AND EMS
Monday, April 27, 2020. Memo sent to three town EMS squads By Budget Officer Barbara
Tierney. EMR has notified us that your agencies are eligible for stimulus aid due to the COVID-
19 pandemic. The program is still being established, but it has been made clear that each
agency needs to file for stimulus aid through an online portal. The Town is not able to
administer this program for the 3 squads. EMR is offering to assist and they will be in touch
with more info as it becomes available. In order to streamline communication between EMR,
your agency and the Town, please designate on individual in your agency that can be made the
point of contact for this program to be able to coordinate the processing of any application
necessary with EMR and the Federal Government. Please see preliminary guidance regarding
the program below. More info should become available in the next few days. The Town
appreciates your cooperation in this process.
May 1, 2020. Sent to three squads: CARES Act provider Relief Fund: Action Required.
TOWN/DEPARTMENT PLANS
TO REDUCE EMPLOYEE EXPOSURE TO THE COVID-19 VIRUS
DEPARTMENT MANAGERS PLANS TO EFFECT GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER # 202.4: “Any
local government or local subdivision shall, effective March 17, 2020, allow non-essential
personnel as determined by the local government, to be able to work from home or take leave
without charging accruals, except for those personnel essential to the locality’s response to the
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COVID-19 emergency. Such non-essential personnel shall total no less than fifty-percent (50%)
of the total number of employees across the entire workforce of such local government or
political subdivision.
ACCOUNTING: Staff schedules and regular hours will be reduced; to accommodate
needs, some staff will rotate schedules. Staff will be working remotely whenever
possible. Staff will be in the office to process payroll and vouchers as necessary.
st
ASSESSMENT: The appraiser will finish the essential work needed for May 1 Tentative
Assessment Roll in the office in the next few days. The assessor will continue to work
from office 10-2 starting next week to correspond with the Town Clerk’s office hours.
The assessor may also work from home when not necessary to use resources in the
office……the office phone will go directly to the assessors’ cell phone when she works
from home.
BUILDING & CODES: Staff will be asked to work from home or other remote locations.
BUILDING & GROUNDS: Because cleaning and housekeeping measures that are required
to best respond to the COVID-19 mitigation efforts. However, Building & Codes will cut
everyday staff by half, alternating every other week.
CEMETERY: Superintendent will remain present full time and all other employees will
return to on-site activities (spring cleaning, burials, etc.). To better accommodate non-
local incoming cremations, Crematory will pick up second shift; currently working with
local funeral homes but NYS will supply a refrigeration vehicle soon. Chris Sennett will
works the day shift, Julian Gamache will work 3 to 11, and Ray Wood will be working
Saturdays. Florence is working more hours to accommodate the additional paperwork.
CLERK’S OFFICE: The staff will be rotating for the upcoming two weeks. For the week of
thstst
May 4, the Town Clerk, 1 Deputy Town Clerk and 1 Deputy Tax Receiver will be
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working and all other staff will be home. For the week of May 11, the 2 and 3
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Deputy Town Clerks, 2 Deputy Tax Receiver and Records Clerk will be working. The
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Town Clerk and 1 Deputy Town Clerk will work remotely as needed and the 1 Deputy
Tax Receiver will be home and utilized on as-needed-basis. The staff will work 4 hours
each day and the hours will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with appointments from 10:30
a.m. to 1:30 p.m. FOR ESSENTIAL TRANSACTIONS ONLY.
COURT: At least two staff members will remain home and placed “on call,” or will
otherwise “work from home.”
HIGHWAY:
o All non-essential employees as of March 18, 2020 will be told not to report to
work until April 1, 2020 (about 30 employees).
o Amended by Supervisor Order – Highway Department employees will be called
to action as of Monday, April 13, 2020. See APPENDIX F.
o All employees must be available for call in emergencies.
LEGAL: Staff will work flex time, reduced hours, on non-essential days and full time on
essential days.
PARKS & RECREATION: Reduce Town Office building staff from five to two – some staff
will work remotely with laptops and communicate electronically. 90% of staff is working
from home. Office hours are by appointment only. 175 employees involved with the
Town’s parks & Recreation activities will be asked to stay at home.
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PLANNING & ZONING: All Planning/Zoning employees have the option to work from home and
one day in the office each week if necessary.
SUPERVISOR’S OFFICE: Two non-essential employees (school crossing guards) will be
asked to stay home.
TRANSFER STATIONS: One employee, who due to health issues is an at-risk” employee,
will be asked to stay home. Full time and part time workers will go to full/normal
schedules. Except one part time employee, who due to health issues is an at-risk”
employee, will be asked to stay home.
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WATER/WASTEWATER: As of May 4 the following will be returning to full time on-site
activity: Susan Sheehan (Lab Operator), Alex Benway (Treatment Plant Operations),
Andre Thibodeau (Accounting), Scott Jarvis (Mechanic) and Matt Bearor (Wastewater).
Wastewater laborers will alternate each week. George Carpenter and Jordan Brown will
also return to on-site active.
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Fire hydrant flushing delayed until May 11.
Department to start phasing employees back into the workplace. CDC/State/Local
guidance will be followed.
Samples, tap applications, sewer permits will be processed in the same manner since
the state of emergency.
PERMA review of Town for COVID-19 workplace compliance to assure a safe workplace
environment. Date?
TELEMEDICINE/LIVE HEALTH ON LINE
Employees are encouraged to set up an account for telemedicine, prior to any
symptoms.
Using telehealth offered through your health plan may lower your risk of getting sick or
exposing others to illness. We strongly urge you to not to wait and register until you are
feeling ill. The first step is going directly to www.livehealthonline.com where you can
complete the registration process. Once you register, you will be able to video visit a
doctor online all within the privacy and safety of your home. Please call all toll free at 1-
888-LiveHealth (548-3432) or email help@livehealthonline.com if you have any
problems registering.
COVID-19 SANITATION PLAN (Buildings & Grounds)
The following precautions and proactive actions have and will be implemented regarding the
cleaning and sanitation processes during the period of this outbreak for as long as it is deemed
practical and effective.
Common areas: All common area surfaces as well as wall switches will be sanitized as part of
daily cleaning routine. All exterior door handles and touch points will be sanitized as part of the
daily cleaning routine. Carpet cleaning will take place monthly or as dictated by the types and
amounts of soils encountered.
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Office spaces: Daily: Currently each department has been issued either an aerosol can of
disinfectant, box of latex gloves or both to immediately respond to what they feel are possible
contamination issues and proactive area upkeep.
Supplies will be replenished as long as supplies are available so an emphasis on prudent usage
has been stressed.
Normal cleaning practices will continue with final disinfecting taking place as a last task before
exiting the space.
Weekly: Unless heavily soiled or contaminated with food, trashcan liners will be replaced every
Friday during the cleaning process.
Monthly: High traffic carpets areas will be shampooed in all office areas.
Restrooms: Restrooms will be deep cleaned twice per day OR as needs dictate
Cleaning routines will be as follows: Third shift full cleaning, Noontime full cleaning.
As this situation unfolds it may be necessary to modify this action plan to better improve on this
process.
EMPLOYEE WORK-FROM-HOME POLICY
POLICY SCOPE & PURPOSE
In this time of severe emergency in a common effort to prevent the further migration of the
COVID-19 virus, and to better ensure or employees’ health, welfare and safety, the Town will
allow employees to work from home, if approved by their Department Managers and the Town
Supervisor.
If possible, town employees are expected to conduct their town jobs from home as much as
possible through telecommunication and/or other means.
All town employees are urged to take preventative measures to avoid exposing themselves and
their families to the COVID-19 virus; preventive measures that might include, among other
behaviors: Remain home, maintain social distance of one another (about 6 feet apart), wash
hands, use sanitizer on hands and place and articles that are shared, avoid contact with people
who are sick, throw used tissues in the trash, wear a facemask if you are sick, and avoid
touching your eyes, nose and mouth. In light of this COVID-19 pandemic, please think about
what you’re doing – is it good judgement? Is it expanding my exposure? If it is expanding your
exposure, and it is not essential, then don’t do it. Please don’t do behaviors that will put your
family, fellow workers and others at risk.
Depending on Department Manager and Town Supervisor approvals, home/work arrangements
may vary; work from home (or other remote location) may be full-time/everyday, full-time on
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certain days, or on certain days, dividing their schedule between being present at the town and
home (or other remote location).
Work from home arrangements are expected to be temporary in duration.
In combination with the town’s effort to be compliant with the Governor’s Order 202.4 (the
town should make every effort to reduce non-essential personnel by no less than fifty-percent
(50%) of the total number of employees across the entire workforce of such local government
or political subdivision), we advise both employees and Department Managers to consider
these elements before asking/approving work from home: Is the employee eligible by nature of
their job?; Are there any cybersecurity and data privacy concerns?; Will collaboration with the
employee's team become difficult?; Do employees have the necessary equipment or software
installed at home?; What are the conditions of employees' home or alternative place of work
(noise, internet connection etc.)?
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Work from home or other remote location will not affect regular employees’ employment
terms. Employees are being instructed to not report to work if they are sick. If ill, stay home
and report such to your Department Manager.
If symptoms consistent with COVID-19 diagnosis persist, employees are expected to self-
quarantine until symptoms disappear or until cleared by a physician.
Any employee who is sick for non-COVID -19 related illnesses will use sick time for their
absences.
WISP
Policy will remain in effect.
IT/PHONES
The Town is working to develop:
Live streaming capabilities of its Town Board meetings.
o To enable public viewing and participation.
Greater telecommunication/teleconferencing capabilities to enable, to maximum extent
possible, any telecommuting/teleconferencing from home.
Develop ZOOM, or similar, conferencing capabilities.
By remotely calling 518-761-8300, any employee with a desk phone can call to check
their voicemail messages. You have to enter your extension, and your password when
prompted, then the codes are the same for checking, deleting, etc. your messages.
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OTHER
The town’s website will provide the following:
1. Information about the COVID Virus.
2. Information about federal, state and county plans and activities.
3. The Town’s current COVID-19 policies and protocol.
Warren County Health Services poster for visitors. (See APPENDIX E)
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT QBY/GFL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE CANCELLATION (April 28,
2020): It is with the deepest regret that the City of Glens Falls, the Town of Queensbury
and the 2020 Memorial Day Parade Committee announces that we have to cancel this
year’s Memorial Day Parade and Remembrance Ceremony, scheduled for this May 25th.
Our theme this year was, “Our Flag Waves for Those Who Never Wavered.” All involved
hoped this event would present a meaningful way to mark the end of our community
isolation and pay our deepest respect for those who gave their lives to defend our
nation and freedoms. We have thought about it from many directions and can’t
structure this event in a manner that would be safe for our community and veterans.
For the past 20 years our two communities have had the honor of presenting a parade
and service that pays homage to those who most deserve it; a very well attended event
that all looked forward to. As such, the Memorial Day Parade and Remembrance
Ceremony are always crowd events by definition and therefore could pose unsafe
exposures to all those who attend. Again, we very much regret cancelling this event
because its meaning is so deep and important. John Strough, Town of Queensbury
Supervisor; Dan Hall, City of Glens Falls Mayor; 2020 Memorial Day Parade Committee:
Joan Aldous, Tim Benner, Amy Collins, Carl Fosco, and John Strough.
Tuesday, April 28, 2020. PERMA was asked to provide the Town with a COVID-19
workplace compliance review to assure the Town’s employees are provided a safe work
environment?
Discussed with Building & Grounds Superintendent the future placement of pexiglass
guards at all town places where the public interfaces with town employees: Security,
Park & Rec., Assessment and Building & Codes/Planning & Zoning.
APPENDIX H - Town Supervisor Declaration – Town Board Meetings
HELPFUL WEBSITES
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
o www.cdc.gov/
President’s Coronavirus Guidelines
o www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/03.16.20_coronavirus-
guidance_8.5x11_315PM.pdf
New York State Governor’s website Coronavirus
o www.governor.ny.gov
New York State Department of Health COVID19 Webpage:
o www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronaviruss
Glens Falls Hospital:
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o www.glensfallshospital.org
Websites for talking with Children about COVID19
o www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/talking-
with-children.html
o https://higherlogicdownload.s3.amazonaws.com/NASN/3870c72d-fff9-4ed7-
833f-215de278d256/UploadedImages/PDFs/02292020_NASP_NASN_COVID-
19_parent_handout.pdff
Department of Homeland Security
o www.dhs.gov
TOWN OF QBY POST PANDEMIC PLAN
(UNDER CONSTRUCTION)
Note: The below plan is being drafted almost daily.
Plan Goal: Reduce our employees’ and our public’s risk of exposure to the virus that causes
COVID-19.
GENERAL
Social distancing will still be the expected standard.
In situations where social distancing is not likely to be maintained, masks will be
required.
Gloves required for all situations in which material/money/documents have to be
regularly exchanged.
Pexiglass barriers will be in place where the public interacts with our employees, like
Parks& Recreation desk, Assessment Office desk, Security desk, and
Planning/Zoning/Codes desks.
PPE supply inventory will be well maintained and made available for employee use.
Water, Wastewater, Cemetery, Building & Grounds, Highway already back into active
and on-site.
Consideration should be given to using mailboxes rather than direct human contact
when transferring documents, etc..
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All others will be back to on-site active after May 15.
Transfer Stations back to regular hours.
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All other departments will be back to regular hours after May 15.
Visitor attendance will be guided to north entry doors – to insure traffic management
and security review. Security will maintain a list of non-employees attendance and time
in the building.
Any employees who feels, or appears to, feel they are not feeling well will be asked to
remain home and if their health and technology permit, be expected to do work at
home.
Communication between Supervisor’s Office and all Departments will remain open –
active discussions of this plan will be overseen and updated as needed and agreed upon.
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All meetings, Town Board, Planning Board, and ZBA Board will be held as scheduled, but
in accord with new disease control standards – like social distancing, masks if social
distancing cannot be maintained, apparatus cleaning standards.
Building & Grounds adopted cleaning/disinfecting standards will be maintained.
Each Department should have plans for their activities that involve public interactions
that meet or exceed Federal, State, and local Post-Pandemic standards.
Accounting is to continue to monitor and document costs related to
Traditional gatherings, like in cafeterias at lunch, will be prohibited.
Conference room meetings of more than six will be prohibited.
Public use of playgrounds and picnic areas will remain restricted.
The Activity Center parking area will remain Wi-Fi accessible for the public.
Encourage those who have business with the town to make appointments or do so
through mail, email and remotely when possible.
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As of May 18, Town buildings will be open to the public but restricted to Town post-
pandemic standards, like maintaining social distancing and wearing masks (and gloves in
some cases) if social distancing cannot be maintained.
WATER/WASTEWATER
PERMA will review the Town’s post-pandemic standards and practices to assure
compliance and a safe workplace environment.
Water Department will continue to take water samples as it has been. Walk ins dropping
samples off, will not be permitted.
Tap Applications and Sewer Permits will continue to be processed through mail.
Water would like to continue until early June to proceed as it has been with members of its
Distribution Crew taking vehicle home and reporting directly to the site. This will be reevaluated
in early June.
Wastewater Collection Crew will be back to normal personnel levels on 5/18.
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Water Filtration Plant will be fully staffed as of May 4.
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APPENDIX A
Steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick
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APPENDIX B
Guidance on the Contacts of a close or Proximate Contact of a
Confirmed or Suspected Case of COVID-19
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APPENDIX C
Social Distancing while in Parks and on Trails
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APPENDIX D
Parks & Recreation Maintenance Staff protocols
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APPENDIX E
Warren County Health Services Poster to Visitors
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APPENDIX F
Supervisor Executive Order – Highway Department Services Deemed to be Essential
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APPENDIX G
Ten Steps All Workplaces can take to Reduce Risk of Exposure to Coronavirus
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APPENDIX H
Town Supervisor Declaration – Town Board Meetings
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