Good evening, this is First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons with today’s weekly update.

Madison currently has 20 active COVID-19 cases and two residents hospitalized; we can be grateful that we continue to have no new fatalities. As of yesterday, Madison Public Schools had 6 active cases, including students and staff. Although the number of active cases continue to decline across the state, community spread is still happening.  It is important to continue to wear a mask in public, maintain social distancing, and wash your hands frequently.  We’ve come so far in Madison, let’s not slide back to where we were during those difficult days in early January.

Yesterday, the Governor announced plans to ease some COVID-19 restrictions across the state.  Starting March 19th, capacity restrictions will be lifted for restaurants, retail shops, libraries, gyms, and private gathering sizes will be revised to allow for 25 indoors, 100 outdoors. Social gatherings at commercial venues will increase to 100 indoors and 200 outdoors. All sports will be allowed to practice and compete.  In addition, the state’s travel advisory will be modified from a requirement to recommended guidance. However, mask wearing, social distancing and cleaning requirements are still required. Additional information can be found on ct.gov/Office-of-the-Governor. 

On March 1st, people age 55 or older became eligible to get vaccinated, and on March 22nd, people 45 years and older can start to make appointments. Based on state directives, currently the Town is only holding dedicated vaccination clinics for PreK-12 school staff and teachers, and professional childcare providers only. However, all age-based eligible residents can make appointments to get vaccinated at sites throughout the state, including some area pharmacies, several major hospitals, and by calling the state COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment Assist line at (877) 918-2224.  For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 vaccination locations in Connecticut, please visit ct.gov/covidvaccine.

I also want to remind Madison taxpayers that the Governor issued an emergency order which allows eligible taxpayers a 90-day tax deferment for the second tax installment due January 1, 2021.  To avoid a penalty, the second tax installment is now due by April 1, 2021.  More details are available at www.madisonct.org/tax.

Stay safe and healthy Madison.

Peggy Lyons

First Selectwoman