The latest news

Here's the latest information...

• "New York on PAUSE" was extended today until May 15th, meaning all Schools and nonessential businesses will remain closed.
• Governor Cuomo issued an executive order requiring all people in New York to wear masks or face coverings when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance.  There has been some confusion on this as different sources have relayed this information incorrectly. The Executive Order explicitly says "when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance." Social distance means 6 feet between you and other individuals.  
• An executive order directs employers to provide essential workers with masks free of charge to wear when interacting with the public.
• New Yorkers who have recovered from COVID-19 are encouraged to donate blood. Here’s information on how to donate.
• New Yorkers without health insurance can apply through NY State of Health through May 15, 2020; must apply within 60 days of losing coverage.
• The Columbia County Department of Health is our local community contact for COVID-19 concerns. 
• The Claverack Town Park is closed until further notice.

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The Pine Haven Nursing Home continues to care for multiple residents who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. To date, over 20 residents have tested positive, some have succumbed to the virus.

In response to the outbreak, County leaders have helped to coordinate procurement of personal protective equipment for Pine Haven staff and Administrators from the facility have been in regular contact with County and State Health Officials to help coordinate response to the situation. 

A number of local businesses have donated equipment and materials to the home. The Claverack Republican Club recently provided dinner to all shifts at the home to show support and appreciation for the work being done.

We sincerely appreciate all that is being done to support Pine Haven and the residents who reside there.

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A MESSAGE FROM COUNTY TREASURER PJ KEELER

As we all know by now, the COVID-19 pandemic is wreaking havoc on our healthcare system and has been personally devastating for thousands of New Yorker's who have contracted the virus and the families of those who have lost their lives as a result. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all.

What may not be so apparent, is the economic toll that the pandemic is having across the country, including right here in Columbia County. When businesses are forced to close, spending and economic activity plummets. This in turn results in significantly less revenue flowing to local governments; money we count on to pay the bills. At the same time, we're forced to spend monies that may or may not have been budgeted for, to respond to the pandemic; things like overtime costs and equipment.

I want to assure everyone that the County finance team is fully engaged and responding to this situation. We are diligently working to assess the potential economic impact this pandemic will have on county and town operations and planning strategies to aggressively respond to the challenges ahead. 

Make no mistake, we will get through this. It will take some tough decisions, belt tightening, and good conservative fiscal management, but rest assured we will take the steps necessary to keep our financial house in order... and I will keep you updated as we do.

My best to you all. Please stay home, stay safe, and be healthy.