On Monday, March 16, Edwards announced the state is limiting gatherings to fewer than 50 people. Louisiana is also closing casinos, bars and movie theaters. This will also include limiting restaurants to delivery and drive-through orders only. Edwards announced this will also affect gyms and fitness centers.
It does not apply to normal operations such as airports, medical facilities, office buildings, grocery stores and others. The proclamation states the dates may be extended if necessary.
Oakdale Mayor Gene Paul released a statement in regards to the daily operations of City Hall that they will remain open and functional, but request that citizens make use of the outside bill drop off box or the phone payment system. They remind citizens that they should only be in public if necessary and when in public to use proper precautions.
The Allen Parish Police Jury office has decided to close their office to public access. They are continuing operations as normal but are handling everything remotely. If you are requiring permits or other assistance you can contact them at 337-639-4328.
Allen Parish Courthouse has reported they are limiting access to the public for any operations that are not considered an emergency. This directive given by the Supreme Court of Louisiana encompasses the Clerk of Court office, the Tax Assessor office, the District Attorney Office, the Judges Offices and the Sheriffs Office.
Kinder Mayor Wayland LaFargue said Monday they began limiting access to the lobby at the town hall there. He said the doors are locked and people are using the drive-thru to conduct business.
Oberlin Mayor Joseph “Moochie” Manuel said there is a drop box at the town hall for payments and other town correspondence. He said they are limiting the amount of public exposure for city employees, but they are available if the need arises. He said residents are welcome to call him or the town hall (337-639-4333) for assistance in any matter.
In Reeves, its business as usual according to the Kam Kingery, town clerk. She said the village did reschedule its April 6, court date to June 1.
As of Monday there were 171 cases of COVID 19 and four deaths. The parishes affected so far are Orleans – 116 case(s), Jefferson – 31 case(s), St. Tammany – 6 case(s), Caddo – 4 case(s), St. Charles – 3 case(s), Lafourche – 2 case(s), St. Bernard – 2 case(s), Terrebonne – 2 case(s), Ascension – 1 case(s), Bossier – 1 case(s), Washington – 1 case(s) and St. John the Baptist – 1 case(s).
The deceased had underlying health issues that led to the virus being much more vicious than normal. Most healthy adults will experience mild syptoms which are:
•runny nose
•sore throat
•cough
•fever
•difficulty breathing (severe cases)
Edwards expressed his wishes that citizens please take these necessary precautions to help limit the spread of COVID-19 and stay safe and healthy.
•Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and frequently
•Covering your cough or sneeze with your arm
•Avoiding touching your face
•Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
•Avoiding close contact with others
•And staying home if you are sick
