On behalf of the City of Hiawatha, please know we are working together and are in constant communication regarding the COVID-19 virus. We are using guidance from the CDC, Iowa Department of Public Health, Linn County Public Health and our Fire/Ambulance Department to guide us in our decision-making regarding the city’s activities. We are monitoring the situation daily/hourly and making decisions based on available information.
The Hiawatha Library is closed although staff is currently reporting to work and planning on significantly ramping up online activities and carryout items.
City Hall offices remain open with normal operating hours; however, the City is canceling non-essential meetings and activities in compliance with the new recommendations from IDPH to limit such gatherings. Meetings for the Hiawatha City Council will continue as scheduled at this time; meeting agendas will include essential items only. In addition, enhanced cleaning measures are in place in all city facilities, which includes repeated cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. This is a fluid situation, and if the city changes its hours of operation, we will notify the public via the media, our website, and social media.
The City offers many of its services online and strongly encourages residents to use online services when possible all year long. Utility bills and permitting services can be paid online.
Links to these and other services such as utility bill payments and permitting applications/payments are available on City of Hiawatha’s website hiawatha-iowa.com. If you need assistance with these services, please contact us with questions. Contact information for all City departments is available at hiawatha-iowa.com or by calling 319-393-1515.
City of Hiawatha is also updating its human resources policies to address extended sick leave and paid time off for employees who may be impacted by COVID-19. The City is also educating employees on workplace safety measures including social distancing information and basic hygiene tips.
Everyone can do their part to help respond to this emerging public health threat through implementing these prevention strategies:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- 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 by using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe
- 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 soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol
- Practice social distancing as recommended by the CDC
- Follow the special guidance for those with underlying conditions, such as heart or lung disease or diabetes.
Representatives from the City of Hiawatha, Linn County Public Health, Linn County Emergency Management Agency, Linn County school districts, area municipalities, and other key stakeholders meet daily to receive briefings and updates to address the COVID-19 situation and provide information to the public.
As information about COVID-19 continues to evolve, it is important to stay informed and get information from trusted sources. For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit these websites:
Iowa Department of Public Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Please visit Hiawatha’s website Hiawatha-iowa.com for local updates and related information.
A public hotline has been established for Iowans with questions about COVID-19. The line is available 24/7 by calling 2-1-1.
