Obviously, this has been a challenging week for everyone. We started the week with no known Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases here in Orange County. As of Friday, we have three. Here in Orange County, these are the steps that we have taken and are taking to fight COVID-19:

• We are working to develop a standalone testing area so people can be tested away from hospitals and healthcare facilities. Orange County continues to press the State to make more tests available;
• This morning, school superintendents in Orange County requested guidance on school closures from my office. Many school superintendents asked for a three-week closure. The County Health Commissioner has recommended a two-week closure for the time being. I have communicated that to schools through Orange-Ulster BOCES and am issuing a formal Order to that effect. The purpose of the formal Order is to ensure our local schools receive maximum state aid reimbursement. I have four children of my own and know school closings are very challenging. However, I would not be doing my job if I did not follow the guidance of our healthcare professionals;
• Orange County Clerk Annie Rabbitt is urging County residents to only seek essential services at the DMV which are necessary. Many services remain available online. DMV services are for Orange County residents only, for license and registrations that expire in less than four weeks and limited other services. Please see the County website at: https://www.orangecountygov.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=982
• Civil case jury trials which have not yet started will not happen for the time being across the State per the NYS Unified Court System. Please see: http://nycourts.gov/whatsnew/pdf/MEMO-3.13.20.pdf
• While the County’s Office for the Aging congregate meal locations have been closed, seniors can have meals delivered to their home by contacting the Office for the Aging at 845-615-3710. In the event of a food emergency for a senior, please contact the County’s Office for the Aging Director, AnnMarie Maglione, her cell phone at 845-344-7510.

In light of the school closings, my office and staff are working with BOCES and our local schools in support of efforts to provide meals for school children who regularly receive school breakfasts and/or lunches. Whether you are part of a program or not, we do not want anyone to go hungry at any time, particularly as a result of the emergency school closures. Families in need of assistance can contact their schools or my office at 845-291-2700.

I know personally the strength of America and the people of Orange County. Together, we will weather this. Please feel free to email my office at Ceoffice@orangecountygov.com or call 845-291-2700 if I can be of assistance.

Steve Neuhaus

Orange County Executive