Due to the rise in COVID-19 positivity numbers, all Portage city offices will be closed to the public beginning Monday, Nov. 16 through Friday, Dec. 4.
"We are in a serious, second wave surge of the COVID-19 virus. Sadly, our state has gone from a 3 point positivity rate to now being at 10.5, the highest number since the pandemic began in March. Porter County is now classified as a red level as of Thursday," Portage Mayor Sue Lynch said Friday afternoon.
Portage will continue to provide services to residents, however there will be a few adjustments:
- Utility payments can be made at the drop box in front of City Hall, 6070 Central Ave., by mail, online or by phone by contacting the clerk-treasurers office at 219-762-7784;
- For licensing and permit information, call the building department at 219-762-4204 and - All other questions can be directed to the city hall switchboard at 219-762-5425.
- All City Council, Board of Works and other public meetings will be held virtually until Dec. 1, unless that date is extended by the governor. The governor’s order states all indoor and outdoor gatherings must be limited to no more than 25 persons. Masks and social distancing of at least 6 feet is required at all times.
"The Thanksgiving holiday is less than two weeks away. While this is normally a time for families to be together, I am asking you to consider limiting your gathering to avoid the spread of the COVID virus," said Lynch. "Now more than ever, with the numbers being what they are, it is important to protect your loved ones and keep them safe."
"I want to applaud our businesses and restaurants throughout the city for all they have done and continue to do to keep their establishments open and safe for their customers. I want to encourage them to enforce the use of masks to their patrons and employees during this time," said Lynch.
"I know everyone is getting tired of hearing, wear a mask, socially distance and not to gather with your family and friends, but he bottom line is this virus is very serious and we must get serious about protecting ourselves and our loved ones. By following these simple steps outlined by Gov. Holcomb, we all can help keep our city’s COVID numbers down," said Lynch.
