In light of recent public health concerns and actions taken by other governing bodies, the Mayor of Hancock, Md., Ralph Salvagno M.D. has cancelled the upcoming Hancock Arts Council concert scheduled for March 20th, at Town Hall.
Mayor Salvagno stated, “I discussed this issue with Arts Council president Sinclair Hamilton this morning. He is in complete agreement with this plan. We agreed to assess April events within the next week.”
In addition to this cancellation, all reservations for use of Town Pavilions and use of Town Hall rooms for March and April will be cancelled until further notice. The Hancock Town offices will remain open for the public business of the Town.
“It is appropriate that we are proactive rather than reactive. I am asking that all citizens of the Hancock community exercise caution and wash their hands frequently. Our goal is to ensure the health and well-being our citizens without undue hardship. We anticipate some effect on businesses in Town and will monitor the impact carefully,” Salvagno said in his announcement Thursday afternoon.
As a physician, and following CDC guidelines, Mayor Salvagno would encourage that any person who has symptoms of respiratory disease to stay home and not go to work until they are free of fever (temperature greater that 100.4 ), signs of a fever or any other symptoms for a least 24 hours , without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom -altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants) .
Salvagno said after discussion with Amy Olack, director of the Washington County Commission on Aging, officials have announced the Hancock Congregate site, located at Town Hall, will be closed temporarily beginning on Monday March 16. A “grab and go “option for food delivery will still be in place for those who need it. Mayor Salvagno offered the assistance of the Town in delivering food to those who might night be able to take advantage of this option.
Regarding town meetings, Salvagno said the Town will investigate means by which citizens can engage by submission of written comments and possibly by video broadcasting. The Town will await further direction from the State Attorney General regarding compliance with the Maryland Open Meetings Act.