MONROE, CT — It appears that the new coronavirus will continue to dramatically affect our daily lives in Monroe and Connecticut for the foreseeable future as the state edges closer to its predicted peak of cases.
There are 10 confirmed coronavirus cases in Monroe as of Friday. Fairfield County has 2,716 cases and Connecticut has 4,914. There have been 132 coronavirus-related deaths and 909 hospitalizations in the state.
Fairfield County is expected to see a surge of cases over the next two to three weeks, said Gov. Ned Lamont. The state is expected to need 12,000 coronavirus-ready beds and 4,000 ventilators.
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Here are the latest local updates from Monroe:
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Several town departments and facilities are now working remotely. The Gardner Road Landfill is open, but is only accepting leaves/grass, scrap metal and electronic recycling.
Town parks are open, but residents are encouraged to practice social distancing. Basketball courts and playgrounds are closed.
Monroe’s budget will be adopted without conducting a referendum, but there will still be opportunity for public input.
Monroe’s faith-based organizations are ringing their bells every night between 8 and 8:02 p.m. as a reminder that the community can remain united despite physical separation. Residents are encouraged to ring their own bells as well.
Monroe Schools
Schools will be closed through at least April 20 per Gov. Ned Lamont’s executive order. The town has compiled a list of FAQs for distancing learning. The district os offering free lunch for any child 18-years-old or younger who lives in Monroe. Bagged lunch pickup is available Monday through Friday at Jockey Hollow Middle School. Those who want a lunch must sign-up.
Monroe Businesses
Several restaurants are still offering takeout or delivery service. The town has compiled a list. Patch is also compiling a list of all businesses that are opened or closed in town. Business owners can fill out this form to be included.
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This article originally appeared on the Monroe Patch