March 30, 2020: COVID-19 Special Update
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
  • COVID-19 Community Update from Mayor Murphy
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • Business Community Call Recordings
  • City Hall Blood Drive April 6
  • VPD Activates CARE Program
  • 2020 Census - Get Counted!
  • Neighborhood Watch
  • Calendar and Helpful Links
COVID-19 Community Update from Mayor Murphy (March 27)
Mayor Matt Murphy shares inspiration and updates on COVID-19 in this new video. Questions, ideas and concerns may be sent to info@valpo.us .
COVID-19 Resources
The City of Valparaiso continues to coordinate with state and county officials to keep the community safe and informed. City services of public safety, utilities, trash and recycling pickup, etc. will continue and utility shut offs are suspended. We encourage all residents to follow Governor Holcomb's Stay at Home Order , which is currently set to expire on April 6 (as of 3/30). Follow our website for updates on cancellations/closures related to city departments, and always call in advance of visiting a business or organization during this time.

Quick links to additional COVID-19 resources:

Local resources:

Listen to the March 30 Business Community Call Recording
Mayor Murphy and the Valpo Chamber have partnered to offer weekly Business Community Calls . This is an opportunity for local businesses to hear updates and have questions answered regarding COVID-19. Listen to the recording of the most recent call hosted on March 30 .

Join us for the next call on Monday, April 6 at 8:30 a.m . by dialing 717-275-8940 with access code 3179197. Submit questions in advance to info@valpo.us.
City Hall Blood Drive April 6
Mayor Murphy has announced a local Blood Drive to benefit the American Red Cross, hosted at Valparaiso City Hall on April 6. As we work together to support our community, giving blood is one more way to support local health. Giving blood is an essential public service and Red Cross employees follow strict safety protocols to prevent the spread of any type of infection. The Red Cross is taking appointments for the Blood Drive (limited space remaining), which will be held 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on April 6 at City Hall. To schedule your appointment at City Hall or another site, visit redcrossblood.org and search for local drives by zip code.
Valparaiso Police Department Activates Senior CARE Program
The Valparaiso Police Department maintains a CARE Program (Contact, Assistance and Referral) year round, with open registration for those groups who may be sensitive to extreme weather conditions, including senior citizens. Given the current climate, and overall concern for these same groups during the COVID-19 pandemic, VPD has activated its CARE Program.

Residents are encouraged to register themselves or someone they know, who may need assistance during this time. Registration can take place over the phone, by contacting VPD at 219-462-2135. Once registered, "check ups" will be made on Monday, Wednesday and Friday of each week. Officers will attempt to answer any questions on these calls and perform services when available to address needs. The program will be continued under these guidelines until further notice.
2020 Census - Everyone Counts!
The 2020 Census is here and it's important for everyone to count. Taken every ten years, the Census is an official headcount of all residents and has a big impact on how funding is allocated to local communities. Valparaiso residents should participate in the Census by mail, phone or online. Note that about 35% of our residents have participated to date - please encourage your friends and neighbors to get counted! Learn more.

** CORRECTION: The U.S. Census Bureau encourages college students to be counted on campus, given that is where they WOULD HAVE BEEN RESIDING on April 1 if not for the COVID-19 school closings.
Neighborhood Watch
Valparaiso's neighbors are doing their part to spread joy throughout the community. From "bear hunts" to thank you messages, a friendly note can go a long way and help keep us connected. Here are some photos from around the city, many coming from our awesome neighbor, Kaye!
Calendar: The City of Valparaiso is following the guidelines of the Center for Disease Control concerning public gatherings. Governor Holcomb in Executive Order 20-04 authorized the conducting of public meetings telephonically with only one member of the governing body physically present at City Hall. Other members may participate telephonically. At the date and time of the scheduled public meeting, any member of the public may call 717-275-8940 and use Access Code: 3179197 to participate. Please note that although public attendance is strongly discouraged until the threat of the Coronavirus subsides, the public is still welcome to attend the meeting at City Hall. If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please contact Holly Taylor, Valparaiso Clerk Treasurer at 462-1161 or htaylor@valpo.us .


Quick Links: