COVID-19 – Town Operational Updates – March 30, 2020

Posted on March 30, 2020

Dear Residents and Business Community:

Governor Hogan has issued a 'Stay at Home' Executive Order, effective 8:00 pm this evening (3/30), in an effort to help contain the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) within Maryland.

I encourage everyone to adhere to the Governor’s Executive Order by staying home at this time, unless essential travel is necessary.

While the Executive Order is necessarily restrictive toward non-essential activity, please be reminded that engaging in outdoor exercise, such as walking, hiking, or biking is acceptable in accordance with the Social Distancing polices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Maryland Department of Health (MDH). While our Parks will continue to remain open, we encourage all of our residents to adhere to the policies of Montgomery Parks:Montgomery Parks.

In addition, our local restaurants will be allowed to continue carry-out and delivery options during the Stay at Home order. We are continually updating our Restaurant Guide to provide information on our local restaurants, and we are incredibly thankful to everyone for supporting our local business community.

WTOP has a list of all activities that are considered essential in accordance with the Executive Order here. Please also be reminded to check on your neighbors that may need assistance with daily necessities.

Town Operational Hours and Collection Services

The Town’s operational hours have been modified to 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (Monday – Friday). While Town Hall remains closed to public access during this time, the Town staff is still available to answer any concerns or questions the community may have. We encourage you to send an online Service Request, or you may email a staff member directly (quickest response). You may also contact Town Hall by calling 301-949-2424; however, Town staff will be telecommuting during the Stay at Home order. Mayor Furman is available by calling 301-442-4507, if you have a Town emergency. Any changes to the Town’s modified operational hours will be provided through our email notification system and on the Town’s website.

The Town has temporarily suspended bulk collections in an effort to help our contractor, Ecology Services, maintain a consistent schedule. If the Town determines that we need to amend our existing collection schedule in the coming weeks, we will provide information through our email notification system and our website.

Kensington Farmers’ Market

The State of Maryland has recommended that the Farmers’ Markets remain open during the State of Emergency to maintain an adequate supply line of fresh produce. The Town will be making necessary adjustments to promote social distancing and provide access to hand sanitizer for both patrons and vendors. The Market hours on Saturday will remain 9:00 am – 1:00 pm at the Kensington Train Station and will have fresh produce, poultry, meat, seafood and prepared foods.

April 13, 2020 Town Council Meeting - Postponed

The Monday, April 13, 2020 Town Council Meeting has been postponed until Monday, April 20, 2020, 7 pm. The Public Hearing scheduled for Budget Ordinance No. O-02-2020 (FY21) will now be held on April 20, 2020.

Tracey Furman, Mayor