Emergency Management

https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/maskuphoosiers/index.htm

New Updates:

Local officials confirmed as of Friday (November 20) that there have been two thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine (2789) confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus in Bartholomew County.

There are a cumulative two hundred and eighty-two thousand three hundred and eleven (282,311) confirmed cases in Indiana and four thousand nine hundred and fifty-two (4,952) deaths within the state (sixty-two (62) of those residents of Bartholomew County). There have been a total of three million seven hundred eighty-five thousand four hundred and twenty-two (3,785,422) total tests conducted within the state; twenty-four thousand eight hundred and thirty-six (24,836) of those tested have been Bartholomew County residents. We have limited the number of reporting cases to this site to those counties surrounding Bartholomew due to the number of increasing cases and counties effected. To view a full list on the ISDH map, click on the following link. This information is updated every day at 12:00 noon. https://www.in.gov/coronavirus/

Bartholomew (2789)

Brown (302)

Decatur (1162)

Jackson (1916)

Jennings (758)

Johnson (5678)

Shelby (1608)

Monroe (4964)

It is imperative that we, as a community, take whatever measures possible to prevent further spread of the COVID-19 virus. We realize that these actions pose an inconvenience to many businesses and members of our community. Difficult decisions such as this are taken with the utmost care and concern for our citizens and for our health care system as it continues to prioritize care and medical resources to best handle this situation.

Recommendations:

Under the direction of Dr. Brian Niedbalski, Bartholomew County Public Health Officer, and Columbus Regional Health, we are preparing to respond quickly to any emerging situation, leveraging the considerable insights gained from observations of other communities across the nation. This is a proactive measure to act early and assertively in an effort to reduce not only the number of potential cased of COVID-19 our community sees, but to also significantly reduce the flow and mitigate as much as possible a swell of cases occurring in our area.

The COVID -19 Task Force is collectively recommending the following actions, effective immediately for our community:

Non-essential gatherings must be limited to no more than 250 people. This includes any event or gathering of people who are in one room or a single space at the same time, such as cafeterias, churches, stadiums, meeting and conference rooms, auditoriums and the like. This guidance applies to professional, social, community and similar other gatherings.

Child care and adult day care facilities should institute social distancing and minimize large gatherings. Temporary suspension of operations should be done in consultation with the Family and Social Services and ISDH in the instance of documented community spread.

Individuals over 60 years of age or those with a known underlying health issue such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease should limit public exposure. Whenever possible, friends and family should arrange to provide food and other essential items.

Those who run senior centers and congregate meal services should consider suspending congregate meal services and arrange for home delivery.

Business should consider utilizing telework policies, if available.

COVID-19 CLOSURES/CANCELLATIONS

CLOSURES / CANCELLATIONS

Updated: November 20, 2020 12:00 P.M.

Bartholomew County is currently “Orange” on the county metrics map issued by the Indiana Department of Health.

The Governor’s Latest Executive Order 20-48 restrictions began on November 15 and will continue through December 12.

CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS, NOV. 15 TO DEC. 12 can be found here.

Countywide Additional Guidelines are in effect beginning 12:00 (noon) November 21 until further notice. These guidelines can be found here.

MASK UP HOOSIERS – A statewide mask mandate issued by Governor Holcomb is in effect beginning July 27 until further notice.

INFORMATION MENU LINKS

https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/maskuphoosiers/index.htm

Closures/Cancellations:

City services

City buildings will be closed to the public beginning Monday, November 16 – through Sunday, November 29.
City Hall and Police Office Building closed – appointment only;
Animal Care Building closed – appointment only;
Donner Center Building closed – appointment only;
Utilities Building closed – appointment only; Drive-through open;
Fire Stations – closed to public;
Hamilton Center – open for use;
DPW Building – closed to the public;
Transit – buses will continue to run as normal;
Parks Open
Aviation offices closed – appointment only;

County services

The current guidelines listed below have been extended through January 4, 2021 at this time. (Extended further if need be).
For the period of November 26 through December 7, all county offices are closed to the public. Services will still be provided by calling the individual office.
For the period of December 7 through January 4, 2021, this includes the following:
- Public Access by appointment only continues– one (1) individual only for each appointment (with exceptions)
- No in-person meetings (must use zoom) scheduled in county buildings. (Extended further if need be)
- Commissioners and Council public meetings will continue to be held by (Zoom only) (Extended further if need be)

Events

The 2020 Madison Gold Cup Regatta and the third annual Roostertail Music Festival is being postponed for one year to July 1–4, 2021.
Columbus Fellowship Club on Jonesville Road has canceled all meetings.
Columbus Area Arts Council’s Live on the Plaza, BBQ Blues and Brew and the first two JCB Summer Concert dates have been canceled.
The 16th Annual Deja Vu Fine Art and Craft Show in November is canceled, but will have an online web site.

Schools

Dr. Jim Roberts with Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC) stated that BCSC would be extending e-learning through Tuesday, December 22, 2020, the last instructional day before the scheduled Winter Break, with a planned return to in-person learning on Tuesday, January 5, 2021. A statement by BCSC may be found at http://www.bcscschools.org.
You can find information on Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporations re-opening plan at https://www.bcscschools.org/?fbclid=IwAR2Bg76UHRh12tJ7yZAnIKSpWSHgTJNegisdq7lTCOH8w7HjtXw48nrEzEU
You can find information on Flat Rock-Hawcreek School Corporation re-opening plan at http://www.flatrock.k12.in.us/?fbclid=IwAR3EgqRk_W6SUQqrZZQnNBRNiEe6P0yTOIeUtnsFW_MUM6vH6aAYQV4DWW4

Countywide Additional Restrictions

There is a continued requirement for adherence to requirements for Face Coverings, Social Distancing, Frequent Hand Washing, and Sanitation of frequently touched surfaces to slow the spread of the COVID -19 Virus.

Of Specific Public Health Importance in this announcement are a summary of the following guidelines that become effective Noon, November 21, 2020 until further notice.

Bars, Nightclubs, and bar seating at restaurants may not exceed 25 % capacity adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Movie Theaters, Bowling Alleys, and similar indoor entertainment venues may not exceed 50 % capacity adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Dining room food service, “Big Box” Retailers including food and hardware, essential businesses and similar facilities may not exceed 50% capacity adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Social Gatherings, meetings and events are limited to no more than 50 people adhering to social distancing guidelines. Submitted Plans for larger events will be asked to not exceed 50 attendees, and may be reduced to 25 attendees if the county goes into red level.
Gyms, Fitness Centers, Personal Services, and similar facilities are to operate in a reduced capacity equal to 50 % with restrictions. Screen employees daily, wear face coverings, and equipment must be spaced to accommodate social distancing. Equipment must be cleaned after each use and between uses. Group fitness classes should be postponed at this time.

In their business plan, facilities are to calculate a number of customers that this percentage represents, post that number clearly on the entry door, and ensure those numbers are not exceeded and can be checked by staff and the proper authorities.

COVID-19 VIDEO UPDATES

TASK FORCE VIDEO UPDATES

Updated: November 20, 2020 12:00 P.M.

Bartholomew County is currently “Orange” on the county metrics map issued by the Indiana Department of Health.

The Governor’s Latest Executive Order 20-48 restrictions began on November 15 and will continue through December 12.

CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS, NOV. 15 TO DEC. 12 can be found here.

Countywide Additional Guidelines are in effect beginning 12:00 (noon) November 21 until further notice. These guidelines can be found here.

MASK UP HOOSIERS – A statewide mask mandate issued by Governor Holcomb is in effect beginning July 27 until further notice.

INFORMATION MENU LINKS

https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/maskuphoosiers/index.htm

In order to provide up-to-date information to the community, the COVID-19 Community Task Force will be providing periodic video updates. The most recent are published below.

Have a question? Go to www.crh.org/covid19questions and we’ll address your questions/concerns in future video updates.

COVID-19 TASK FORCE INFO

TASK FORCE INFORMATION

Updated: November 20, 2020 12:00 P.M.

Bartholomew County is currently “Orange” on the county metrics map issued by the Indiana Department of Health.

The Governor’s Latest Executive Order 20-48 restrictions began on November 15 and will continue through December 12.

CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS, NOV. 15 TO DEC. 12 can be found here.

Countywide Additional Guidelines are in effect beginning 12:00 (noon) November 21 until further notice. These guidelines can be found here.

MASK UP HOOSIERS – A statewide mask mandate issued by Governor Holcomb is in effect beginning July 27 until further notice.

INFORMATION MENU LINKS

https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/maskuphoosiers/index.htm

Bartholomew County Coronavirus (COVID-19) Task Force Information:

Local officials continue their efforts to ensure a coordinated response to COVID19 -Coronavirus in Bartholomew County. Additionally, there are several sub-committees to the task force that address different area and report back to the main body of the task force any updates.

The COVID-19 Task Force includes representatives from Columbus Regional Health, the City of Columbus Mayor’s Office, Bartholomew County Health Department, Bartholomew County Emergency Management, Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation, and Cummins Inc., Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, Columbus Area Economic Development, and Bartholomew County Commissioners.

CRH is following protocols on active screening and response methods based on recommendations from the federal Centers for Disease Control and ISDH, including screening patients for symptoms of illness and exposure risk criteria, such as travel history.

First-responding agencies within Columbus and Bartholomew County are following a unified approach to preparedness and response to a potential COVID-19 case in our area. The procedures are aimed at not only keeping fire, law enforcement and medical personnel safe, but helping us prevent the potential spread of any germs in an effort to keep you, your loved ones and ultimately, our community, safer.

Bartholomew County Commissioners signed a local State of Emergency Declaration extending it until May 29 for the COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic. At that time, the declaration will be re-evaluated and extended as needed.

COVID-19 PREVENTION

PREVENTION

Updated: November 20, 2020 12:00 P.M.

Bartholomew County is currently “Orange” on the county metrics map issued by the Indiana Department of Health.

The Governor’s Latest Executive Order 20-48 restrictions began on November 15 and will continue through December 12.

CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS, NOV. 15 TO DEC. 12 can be found here.

Countywide Additional Guidelines are in effect beginning 12:00 (noon) November 21 until further notice. These guidelines can be found here.

MASK UP HOOSIERS – A statewide mask mandate issued by Governor Holcomb is in effect beginning July 27 until further notice. The mask mandate remains in place even with the move to Stage 5.

INFORMATION MENU LINKS

https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/maskuphoosiers/index.htm

Prevention

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus and follow the below recommendations for preventing the spread of respiratory diseases:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Practice social distancing of at least 6 feet.
- Where a mask when out in public.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If you’re unable to use soap, sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol can be used.

Here are some of the registered disinfectants from the EPA’s list that can be used against the coronavirus:

Clorox Multi Surface Cleaner + Bleach

Clorox Disinfecting Wipes

Clorox Commercial Solutions® Clorox® Disinfecting Spray

Lysol brand Heavy-Duty Cleaner Disinfectant Concentrate

Lysol Disinfectant Max Cover Mist

Lysol brand Clean & Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner

Purell Professional Surface Disinfectant Wipes

Sani-Prime Germicidal Spray

COVID-19 LOCAL LINKS

LOCAL LINKS

Updated: November 20, 2020 12:00 P.M.

Bartholomew County is currently “Orange” on the county metrics map issued by the Indiana Department of Health.

The Governor’s Latest Executive Order 20-48 restrictions began on November 15 and will continue through December 12.

CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS, NOV. 15 TO DEC. 12 can be found here.

Countywide Additional Guidelines are in effect beginning 12:00 (noon) November 21 until further notice. These guidelines can be found here.

MASK UP HOOSIERS – A statewide mask mandate issued by Governor Holcomb is in effect beginning July 27 until further notice.

INFORMATION MENU LINKS

https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/maskuphoosiers/index.htm

For information on the preventative measures in place by individual entities or for more information, following the below links.

Local Links:

Indiana Department of Health – Latest information from ISDH https://www.in.gov/isdh/28470.htm

Cummins Engine Company – Cummins employees can access company information HERE.

Columbus Regional Health - https://www.crh.org/news

Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation - https://www.bcscschools.org/COVID-19

City of Columbus - https://www.columbus.in.gov/covid-19-information/

Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives - https://resources.acce.org/crisismanagement

CDC – When and How to Wash Your Hands https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html

CDC - El lavado de las manos: Las manos limpias salvan vidas https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/esp/index.html

ISDH Online COVID-19 Case Tracker - https://www.in.gov/isdh/28470.htm

How to Prepare and Take Action for COVID-19 - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/index.html

Coronavirus Rumor Control - https://www.fema.gov/Coronavirus-Rumor-Control

COVID-19 COUNTY STATUS

COUNTY STATUS

Updated: November 20, 2020 12:00 P.M.

Bartholomew County is currently “Orange” on the county metrics map issued by the Indiana Department of Health.

The Governor’s Latest Executive Order 20-48 restrictions began on November 15 and will continue through December 12.

CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS, NOV. 15 TO DEC. 12 can be found here.

Countywide Additional Guidelines are in effect beginning 12:00 (noon) November 21 until further notice. These guidelines can be found here.

MASK UP HOOSIERS – A statewide mask mandate issued by Governor Holcomb is in effect beginning July 27 until further notice.

INFORMATION MENU LINKS

https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/maskuphoosiers/index.htm

COUNTY STATUS: ORANGE

AS OF NOVEMBER 17, 2020

-- BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT ADDITIONAL GUIDLINES FOR BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY --

CountyStatus1120

-- STATE-WIDE GUIDELINES --

countymetrics1

countymetrics2

COVID-19 TESTING

COVID-19 TESTING

Updated: November 20, 2020 12:00 P.M.

Bartholomew County is currently “Orange” on the county metrics map issued by the Indiana Department of Health.

The Governor’s Latest Executive Order 20-48 restrictions began on November 15 and will continue through December 12.

CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS, NOV. 15 TO DEC. 12 can be found here.

Countywide Additional Guidelines are in effect beginning 12:00 (noon) November 21 until further notice. These guidelines can be found here.

MASK UP HOOSIERS – A statewide mask mandate issued by Governor Holcomb is in effect beginning July 27 until further notice.

INFORMATION MENU LINKS