"The Scarborough School Department and Community Services have done extensive planning and made difficult decisions to keep our students, and by extension our community, safe. It is essential that we support this effort after school hours to continue to reduce the potential spread of the COVID-19 virus." said Library Director, Nancy Crowell.

In compliance with the state's current guidelines for public and community buildings, the Scarborough Public Library now limits the number of visitors coming into the building and suggests each visit be no more than 15 minutes. We have removed or blocked all seating and tables and removed computers to discourage people from lingering. The reconfiguration of space and furniture allows the Library to maximize separation for people using the collection and reduces contact with shared surfaces. Patrons are asked to wear a facemask covering both nose and mouth, to sanitize hands upon entry, and to maintain a six-foot distance from all others throughout the visit. 

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If you've been to the beach lately, you've probably noticed new signage as well as some "Community Ambassadors" providing information about staying safe from COVID-19 in Scarborough.  These are just a few of the activities that the Town of Scarborough will be undertaking between now and October 31 to promote community education around COVID-19 prevention. These activities are paid for under two grants from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.

The job of the Community Ambassadors is to provide friendly reminders about how to stay safe on the beaches - including the three pillars of prevention: washing hands, wearing masks and staying at least six feet apart.  They are gently reminding people that the beach has plenty of room to spread out.  There is no need to settle right by the entrances.  An additional benefit is that the Ambassadors are greeting our residents and visitors, making them feel welcome in this challenging time.  Along with our Ambassadors, we have additional cleaning staff taking on more frequent cleanings at the beach restrooms and at other Town facilities.

We have new signage at the beaches, reminding people to be kind, stay safe and be aware. We are working on new signs that express appreciation for wearing masks.  Additional messaging is being developed now. Look for new signage at the main gateways into the community.

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During September we recognize National Preparedness Month, a great opportunity to remind everyone about the importance of personal and family preparedness.  This year's theme is "Disasters Don't Wait, Make Your Plan Today".  

Each week of the month has a different theme.  During week 1 (September 1-5) the focus is on making a plan.  Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect our area.  Know how you'll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that's familiar and easy to find.  As you put your plan together start by asking yourself and your family the following questions:  How will you receive emergency alerts and warnings?  What is your shelter plan?  What is your evacuation route?  What is your family/household communication plan?  Do you need to update your emergency preparedness kit?  

Don't forget to review the latest Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance and include face coverings, disinfectants, and any other items necessary during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Don't forget to consider specific needs in your household including special dietary, medication, disabilities, or functional needs that must be considered.  Fill out a family emergency plan and practice it.

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Welcome to the official newsletter of the Town of Scarborough, Maine.  Brought to you by a team of Town staff, our mission is to keep you informed about town events and activities.  

Please note that the newsletter articles are intended to be brief and will often point you back to a link on the Town's Website or Facebook page. The website is the heart of the communication network within town and is the central repository for information on Town government.

Your newsletter team:

Tody Justice, Town Clerk	Lucy Norvell, Public Library
Jill Deering, Community Services	Donald Begin, IT
Magdalena Slawiec, SEDCO	Brian Longstaff, Codes & Planning
Kelly Johnston, Scarborough Public Schools	Michael Thurlow, Fire Department
Kim Sperlich, Police Department	Ruth Porter, Finance
Leona Oceania, Public Works	Liam Gallagher, Administration