City of Sherrill COVID-19 Updates
CAC Information- Updated 8/28/20
The City of Sherrill is preparing to reopen the Community Activity Center in mid-September. Information about bowling guidelines and facility use is available at https://sherrillny.org/recreation/cac/.
Parks & Playground Information- Updated 6/16/20
Parks and open spaces in parks may be used as long as proper social distancing is practiced.
The Governor has announced that local municipalities may open public playgrounds at their discretion while following state guidance. City of Sherrill playgrounds are open effective immediately. (This does not include any VVS School District playgrounds, as schools and their facilities are a part of Phase 4 opening guidelines and the District will provide updates about when these facilities will reopen.) When using City of Sherrill parks and playgrounds please remember that there are still regulations and guidance related to COVID-19. NYS encourages practicing social distancing by keeping at least six feet of distance between yourself and others, even when outdoors. When in public and 6’ distance cannot be maintained the State requires a mask or face covering be worn in public. NYS also recently announced that gatherings of up to 25 people are allowed, this is up from the previous allowance of 10. Please remember that guidelines change regularly and we will post updates as we are able. We thank everyone for their patience and understanding and are glad we can open our playgrounds.
General Information- Updated May 29, 2020
Like many communities across the State of New York, the City of Sherrill is preparing for the projected fiscal impact relative to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus). In reaction to the projected 20% reduction in State Aid, as well as the significant reductions of Sales Tax Revenue and zeroing out of the Revenue Sharing Agreement with the County, the City of Sherrill Commission was forced in making some very difficult decisions relative to the 2020 City of Sherrill Budget. The Sherrill City Commission has recommended the following steps:
- Reduction in non-essential spending.
- Mandatory (5) furlough days for all City employees (excluding public safety).
- Cut City portion of annual Street Paving and Improvement program.
- Cut funding to Sherrill Kenwood Volunteer Fire Dept. Fire Board.
- Cut 3rd and 4th quarter funding to Sherrill-Kenwood Free Library.
- Cut funding for new City decorations.
- Cut funding for City travel and training.
- Cut funding to community events/programs.
- Outsourcing City wide refuse collection.
- Hiring freeze for non-essential employees.
- Cut funding to equipment, building and other reserve funds.
Many other communities have already announced the cancellation of community events and programs ranging from festivals and concerts to parades and celebrations. The City of Sherrill delayed making these decisions as long as possible as a sign of hope. Regretfully, due to the limitations associated with social distancing requirements, programs such as the Summer Concert Series, City Fireworks Weekend Celebration and relative activities have been cancelled for 2020. The Al Glover Pool, City Park Program, and other youth programs have also been cancelled.
The Sherrill Community Activity Center remains closed until guidance is provided from New York State. City Hall will reopen with restrictions pending state guidance, information will be posted when State makes information available.
The City is preparing for a $400,000 – $500,000 shortfall of revenue in 2020, these cuts and cancellations are necessary in an attempt to shorten the revenue gap. We understand that this news is disappointing, however it is financially necessary due to the circumstances created by this virus and shutdown of the State and economy. City Officials are also focusing on 2021 as they recognize that the effects from this shutdown are long term, and fiscally responsible decisions are needed in an effort to continue delivering the quality services that our residents deserve.
The City of Sherrill has already begun working on the community events and programs for 2021. The City will continue to explore creative ideas of keeping the Community engaged over the summer and the rest of 2020. We are currently making plans on some “social distancing” events utilizing private donations for this summer. Please keep an eye on the City’s website and Facebook page for future announcements.
Any questions please contact City Manager Brandon Lovett at [email protected] or 315-363-2440.
Letter from City of Sherrill Mayor- March 18, 2020
A message to the Residents of the City of Sherrill,
As Mayor, it is my responsibility to provide leadership to you and the employees of our great City. Unfortunately, in our past, we’ve experienced situations that have rattled our community, but we’ve also witnessed unparalleled compassion and consideration for our neighbors in need when these events unfolded. I’m confident that this event will be no different, and our community will rally amongst one another during this COVID-19 crisis.
Today we have declared a State of Emergency for the City of Sherrill. This is not to escalate fear amongst residents but to follow the lead of Oneida County and New York States. A state of emergency provides the City with the powers necessary to coordinate and implement plans aimed at protecting its residents and property during a crisis situation.
City Hall and the CAC will remain closed to the public until further notice. Residents can call or e-mail the appropriate city department for all inquiries. Contact information is available on the City website www.sherrillny.org or by calling City Hall at 315-363-2440.
These are unprecedented times and the information changes on the hour. Our dedicated administration and staff are working hard to follow the news from the State and County. It is responsible for all of us to remain calm and make decisions based on facts from credible sources like the Oneida County Health Dept, State Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Here are a few tips to keep you safe.
With the information we know today, practicing social distancing to prevent and at least slow the spread of the virus is prudent. Social distancing is a non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPI) whereby people reduce their risk of contact with infected individuals by creating and using ways to increase the distance between people in settings where people commonly come into close contact (within 6 feet) with others. Avoid gatherings of people where close contact with others is a natural. Everyone should practice the following healthy habits and NPI’s to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands often.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow or tissue.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you’re sick and avoid close contact with others.
If you’re concerned that you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 and are showing mild symptoms such as fever, respiratory distress, aches and pains you should do the following:
- Stay Home and self-quarantine
- Call your healthcare provider. DO NOT go to the emergency room, urgent care or doctor’s office.
- After contacting your health care provider, they may direct you to an Oneida County drive through testing location in Utica or Rome.
If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19, then you should get medical attention immediately. These signs may include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath (respiratory distress), persistent pain or pressure in chest, confusion or blush lips and face. This is not all inclusive. Please consult with your health care provider for any other severe symptoms or concerns.
Older adults or people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from this illness. Those at higher risk for serious illness should contact their healthcare provider early, even if illness is mild.
COVID-19 will have physical, social, emotional and economic impacts to our community, but I also know that in time, life as we know it, will return to normal.
The City will continue to monitor this situation and will utilize social media, email and our website to keep our residents up to speed with information as we receive it from reliable sources. Please take care of yourself and your family during this trying time. Stay healthy and safe.
Sincerely,
William Vineall, Mayor