Dear Residents,
Unfortunately as of today, Madison has 53 positive cases of COVID-19 and one new fatality. Our hearts are with the family of this new victim. We remain in a state of community spread and encourage everyone to remain vigilant in their efforts to contain the virus. This includes wearing a face mask in public places, which is now required under an executive order issued by Governor Lamont late last week. The order directs face coverings to be worn by anyone in public wherever a six-foot distance is unavoidable, including by employees while in the workplace. This applies to all Connecticut residents over the age of two but does not apply to anyone that has a medical condition preventing a mask’s use. If you do not already have a mask, a CDC video explains how to make a face covering. The town is also accepting donations of reusable cloth face masks to distribute to needy residents at its donation drop-off location at the Madison Senior Center.
Since social distancing directives have been extended through late May, all town sponsored events, festivals, farmer’s markets, and parades for the month of May are postponed, including Madison’s Memorial Day parade. Madison’s Health Department, in conjunction with the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health, will issue additional details on how these activities may be conducted in future months in a safe manner.
I want to thank those Madison businesses who have been able to remain open under difficult circumstances. Many of our businesses are working tirelessly to serve our community and have found creative ways to stay connected with their customers. The Madison Chamber of Commerce has a list of local businesses that are still operating on their website at https://madisonct.com/. We look forward to a time when we can enjoy our great downtown again in person, but in the meantime, please consider ordering a take-out meal, purchasing a gift by mail or telephone, or buying a gift card for future use. Every little bit helps.
If you are a Madison Senior in need of food, errand runs, pet food, or any social service, please contact Madison Senior Services at 203-245-5627. We have plenty of supplies and volunteers to serve your needs. And if you are a family in quarantine needing assistance with food or other basic necessities, please reach out to Madison Youth and Family Services by leaving a confidential message at (203) 245-5645 or email them at madisonwillrise@madisonct.org. They are here to help you.
I also want to remind residents that this Wednesday, April 22nd is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Madison had been planning a Green Expo and Clean Up Day in commemoration. However, given the need to avoid large gatherings, the event has been postponed to sometime in the fall. In lieu of this, we encourage residents to go out and clean up litter in a local area of your choosing, such as on your favorite neighborhood walk or local hiking trail. The town will have a dumpster available starting this Wednesday through this Sunday in front of Memorial Town Hall for those wanting to dispose of collected trash. Please use your own gloves, mask, and a sturdy garbage bag. Help show your appreciation for all the natural beauty we enjoy in our community by making it a little cleaner.
I want to give a final thank you to those young people in town who are working hard to follow the social distancing directives. We know it is a challenge for you during a time of great uncertainty and isolation - we are grateful for your maturity and sense of collective responsibility. Know that your selfless actions are having an impact and saving lives. Stay safe, healthy and at home, Madison.
Peggy Lyons
First Selectwoman