SPARTA NEWS

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 20, 2020

From: Sparta Mayor Jeff Young

City of Sparta Steps Up Measures to Reduce Exposure to COVID-19

In response to recent developments regarding the COVID-19 outbreak, starting Monday March 23, 2020, the City of Sparta is closing all walk-in services and lobbies. This includes access to City Hall (6 Liberty Square), Sparta Electric and Public Works (545 Bockman Way), Sparta Fire Halls (715 North Spring Street and 305 Bockman Way), and the Sparta Police Department (323 Bockman Way).

• To pay electric and water bills, please use the drive-thru window or the night depository at Sparta Electric and Public Works located at 545 Bockman Way, pay online at www.spartaelectricsystem.com/BillPay.htm , or call 931-738-2281. There is also a night depository box at City Hall located at 6 Liberty Square.
• To pay tickets, taxes, obtain a business license or apply for a permit, please call City Hall (6 Liberty Square) at call 931-836-3248.
• The Codes Enforcement Office located at City Hall (6 Liberty Square) will be open by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling 931-836-3248. Information can be submitted in various alternative ways, and fees can be paid by drop box, over the phone, or online. We will continue to issue building permits and perform inspections.
• To contact the Fire Department, call 931-738-7380.
• To contact the Police Department, call 931-836-3734.
• Records requests and Municipal Court information and requests can be directed to City Hall at 931-836-3248.

Following similar precautions being taken across the state and the nation, these measures are being taken to limit potential exposure to COVID-19. All emergency services and trash collection services will continue to operate fully, and as regularly scheduled. City staff and services will continue to be available by phone and many services are available online.

I'm encouraging the greater Sparta and White County community to work together during this time. The CDC and State of Tennessee Department of Health officials recommend social distancing, which is a term for taking precautions to reduce your contact with other individuals. It is imperative that we understand the impact of this pandemic on our community, and we know the collective action on preventative hygiene and minimizing social gatherings will significantly reduce the long-term impacts on Sparta. These short-term measures will build upon our resiliency and strength. We have one goal in mind-to mitigate the possible spread of the virus and avoid a longer-term risk to the community.

The health and safety of our residents, visitors, and staff is of the highest importance at this time. The City continues to monitor updates from the CDC and state health officials and will adjust our response plans and operations based upon their advice. The City of Sparta and White County have worked closely during the decision-making process and these measures are being taken in conjunction with similar actions taken by the White County Executive along with County Offices.