On Saturday, March 28th, Governor Kelly issued Executive Order 20-16, establishing a statewide “Stay at Home” order to further slow the spread of Covid-19. The spirit and intent of this Executive Order is for people to stay at home to the greatest extent possible. The Order becomes effective Monday, March 30th and will remain in force until rescinded, until April 19th, or until the Statewide Disaster Emergency Declaration expires, whichever is earliest. For more information about Executive Order 20-16, visit https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/EO20-16.pdf.
Government operations are specifically defined as an essential function and the City will continue to provide all essential services. City buildings continue to be closed to the public; however, operations are being conducted as usual. City parks and trails will remain open, but restrooms, playground equipment, and shelters are closed, and this includes the Golf Course and Dog Park. Visitors are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing at City parks (six feet separation, no more than 10 people present).
The Executive Order provides guidance on what type of businesses are considered essential and exempt from the Stay at Home Order. This is a State directive and as such, the City of Hays will not be interpreting this provision unless necessary to comply with the Executive Order. Please refer to the Order for more information and if you are still unsure, you may email KEFF@ks.gov for further direction. Please do not call the City of Hays or Ellis County 911 for interpretation assistance regarding this matter. The State of Kansas has exercised its ability to govern the situation and will provide you guidance if you need it.
During the duration of the Stay at Home Order, residents may leave their homes for employment, or to obtain food, medicine and household necessities. If you do have to leave your home to purchase supplies, please be respectful and refrain from purchasing more than necessary. Groceries and other supplies may be available by delivery. Check your usual store for that service. Restaurants may continue to provide drive-up or delivery service. Check with them.
Nothing is more important than the health, safety, and well-being of our employees and residents, that is why during these unprecedented times, we ask for your utmost cooperation and assistance.
To learn more about Covid-19, please utilize the following resources:
- Ellis County Health Department: https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health
- HaysMed Covid-19 Hotline, 1-877-261-7140. The hotline is designed for anyone who has questions about the novel coronavirus.
- Kansas Department of Health & Environment: http://www.kdheks.gov/
- Centers for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov/