COVID-19 – What You Need To Know & Resources

CDC is responding to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in China and which has now been detected in more than 100 locations internationally, including in the United States. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).

On social media? Stay up-to-date with these channels: Kingsport Alerts, Your Kingsport Chamber & Sullivan County Regional Health Department.

Please check this webpage for regular updates within the City of Kingsport.

4/6/2021

Executive Order #8 – Sullivan County Mayor Venable

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on March 31, 2021, all businesses, organizations, or venues open to usage by members of the public in Sullivan County, Tennessee shall require the use of face coverings or masks by their employees and members of the public while inside their premises in areas accessible by the public. NOTE: Cloth face coverings or masks should NOT be worn by children under two or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. In effect through April 30, 2021.

2/26/2021

Executive Order #7 – Sullivan County Mayor Venable

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on February 28, 2021, all businesses, organizations, or venues open to usage by members of the public in Sullivan County, Tennessee shall require the use of face coverings or masks by their employees and members of the public while inside their premises in areas accessible by the public. NOTE: Cloth face coverings or masks should NOT be worn by children under two or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. In effect through March 31, 2021.

12/20/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 70

12/1/2020

Executive Order #5 – Sullivan County Mayor Venable

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on November 30, 2020, all businesses, organizations, or venues open to usage by members of the public in Sullivan County, Tennessee shall require the use of face coverings or masks by their employees and members of the public while inside their premises in areas accessible by the public. NOTE: Cloth face coverings or masks should NOT be worn by children under two or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

10/30/2020

Executive Order #4 – Sullivan County Mayor Venable

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on October 31, 2020, all businesses, organizations, or venues open to usage by members of the public in Sullivan County, Tennessee shall require the use of face coverings or masks by their employees and members of the public while inside their premises in areas accessible by the public. NOTE: Cloth face coverings or masks should NOT be worn by children under two or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

10/20/2020

SCRHD COVID-19 Update from BMA Meeting

10/9/2020

CDC Guidelines for Halloween

10/2/2020

Kingsport Senior Center Reopens

9/20/2020

State of Emergency Remains Through October – Governor Lee

9/11/2020

Executive Order #3 – Sullivan County Mayor Venable

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on September 12, 2020, all businesses, organizations, or venues open to usage by members of the public in Sullivan County, Tennessee shall require the use of face coverings or masks by their employees and members of the public while inside their premises in areas accessible by the public. NOTE: Cloth face coverings or masks should NOT be worn by children under two or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

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8/29/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 59

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 60

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 61

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8/11/2020

Executive Order #2 – Sullivan County Mayor Venable

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on August 12, 2020, all businesses, organizations, or venues open to usage by members of the public in Sullivan County, Tennessee shall require the use of face coverings or masks by their employees and members of the public while inside their premises in areas accessible by the public. NOTE: Cloth face coverings or masks should NOT be worn by children under two or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

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7/31/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 55

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7/21/2020

On July 21, 2020, Sullivan County Regional Health Department Director Gary Mayes and Dr. May gave an update on COVID-19 in Kingsport and Sullivan County.

Watch it here.

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7/10/2020

Executive Order #1 – Sullivan County Mayor Venable

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on July 12, 2020, all businesses, organizations, or venues open to usage by members of the public in Sullivan County, Tennessee shall require the use of face coverings or masks by their employees and members of the public while inside their premises in areas accessible by the public. NOTE: Cloth face coverings or masks should NOT be worn by children under two or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

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7/1/2020

Kingsport Public Library reopening on July 6.

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6/30/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 50

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6/12/2020

Kingsport Area Transit Service (KATS) bus routes will resume service on Monday, June 15. The buses and vans will continue to be taken out of service each day from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in order to thoroughly sanitize each vehicle. The Dial A Ride ADA/65/Job Assist van service will continue providing trips for eligible passengers as well. The KATS lobby will also be reopening for service. Remember, KATS service runs Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm.

6/3/2020

The Kingsport Carousel is now open Wednesday – Saturday from 12:30-2:30 and 3:00-5:00. The Carousel will close from 2:30-3:00 for cleaning. For more information, click here.

The Scott Adams Skate Park is now open.

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5/22/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 38

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The City of Kingsport is reopening certain facilities and buildings starting June 1 with the new Governor’s Orders that have been recently released. Please note – if a building or facility is not on the list, it won’t be opened in this next phase. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work into the next reopening phase.

• City Hall/Customer Service – remaining closed; utility/water bills can be made in person at 109 Clay Street (old KATS station). 423-343-9860
• Renaissance Center – building will be open with meetings allowed with limited occupancy and social distancing measures. Rentals are being taken for groups of 50 or less. The Senior Center is NOT open at this time. 423-392-8414
• Playgrounds – gradually opening all city playgrounds over the next week. 423-229-9457
• Parks and Recreation Programs – currently waiting on further state guidance as to possible openings with program modifications and limited participation. 423-229-9457
• Carousel – will open with limited hours starting June 3. 423-343-9834
• Kingsport Public Library – will open in limited capacity with curbside book service. 423-229-9489
• Kingsport Aquatic Center – the outdoor pool and warm water pool will be available for lap swimming/exercise/aerobics; the main pool and lazy river will open June 15 for exercise classes with limited occupancy. 423-343-9758
• Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium – gatehouse will open; the top level of the nature center will open with limited occupancy and one-way traffic direction. Barge rides and planetarium shows will start with limited occupancy. Trails will continue to be open. 423-229-9447
• Dog Park – will be open June 1. 423-229-9457
• These buildings will all open June 1 and be available for rentals of 50 people or less. 423-229-9457
  • Allandale Mansion
  • Civic Auditorium
  • O. Dobbins
  • Lynn View Community Center
  • Borden Park building
  • Picnic Shelters
• The listed facilities and buildings will remain CLOSED at this time.
  • Skate Park
  • Domtar/Brickyard fields
  • Riverview Splashpad
  • Centennial Park Fountain
  • The Senior Center
  • Herpetarium (Bays Mountain)
  • Farmstead Museum (Bays Mountain)
  • Observatory (Bays Mountain)
  • Outdoor Water Park (Kingsport Aquatic Center)

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5/18/2020

Kingsport Farmers Market will open May 23. Market operations have been affected by COVID-19 so please read and prepare to follow extra precautions and best practices.

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5/17/2020

Bays Mountain Day Camp is canceled.

Kingsport Aquatic Center reopening with limited capacity.

Kingsport Parks and Recreation Summer Program canceled.

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5/8/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 35

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 34

For a list of all his executive orders, please click here.

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5/6/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 33

For a list of all his executive orders, please click here.

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5/4/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 32

For a list of all his executive orders, please click here.

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5/1/2020

City Facility Reopening Information

BMA Work Sessions and Business Meetings
Per the Governors Executive Order #16, BMA meetings will remain closed to the public and will be conducted electronically through at least May 18^th.  Citizens can continue to watch our work sessions and business meetings on Spectrum cable channel 192 or via livestream on our website, www.kingsporttn.gov.

Customer Service Center
Our Customer Service Center, located at City Hall, will remain closed to walk in traffic through the month of May.  However, walk in payments can continue to be made at 109 Clay Street (former KATS station) or at the City Hall drop box located in the parking lot.  In person meetings, by appointment, for customer service items will also remain in place through the month of May.

• Utility related questions call (423) 343-9860
• Tax related questions call (423) 229-9418
• Public information requests call (423) 229-9384
• Any Customer questions email custservicecent@Kingsporttn.gov

Parks and Recreation
While city parks remain open, the playgrounds, skatepark and basketball courts remain closed per the Governor’s Executive Order #30 which prohibits social gatherings of 10 or more.  All athletic fields and community centers, including Allandale and Civic Auditorium, remain closed as well. A decision on the Summer Camp Program, other programs, shelter rentals and splashpad opening are still being determined.

Bays Mountain Park
Bays Mountain Park remains open however; the Nature Center, Herpetarium, Farmstead Museum, and Observatory remain closed to the public at this time and no public programs are being offered.  Due to the inability to offer social distancing as recommended by the CDC, the dam is also closed at this time. A decision on Summer Day Camp is still being determined.

Farmers Market
Staff continues to evaluate appropriate measures which would allow for a safe reopening of the Kingsport Farmers Market.  More information to come.

Kingsport Area Transit Service
Demand response service will continue until we move into phase 2 or 3.

Senior Center
Governor Lee’s Executive Order #30 recommends Senior Centers remain closed until May 29th.

Kingsport Public Library
The Kingsport Public Library remains closed. Like the Senior Center, a large percentage of our regular patrons are seniors, or members of other vulnerable populations, and we don’t want to endanger them by circulating materials to them that might have the virus lingering on them.  The majority of the other Regional Libraries are currently planning to begin curbside service on June 1. More details regarding opening of the facility will be released later this month.  Library patrons are encouraged to view the digital media found on our website www.kingsportlibrary.org.

Kingsport Aquatic Center
Per the Tennessee Pledge, and referenced in the Governors Executive Order #30, swimming pools are required to remain closed.  Staff continues to prepare for a future opening of both the indoor and outdoor facility.

Kingsport Police Department
The Kingsport Police Department is still responding to emergencies and other citizen calls for service and will continue to do so.

• Whenever possible, routine reports, especially those non-criminal in nature, may be handled over the telephone.
• Whenever possible, officers may avoid entering homes, and instead communicate with citizens outside, unless it is absolutely necessary to enter the residence.
• Whenever possible, officers will try to observe the recommended 6-foot distance from citizens and avoid shaking hands.
• The Kingsport Justice Center will remain open; however, citizens are respectfully requested to not come to the Justice Center unless absolutely necessary. If your need can be handled via telephone, please call.
• If you absolutely need to come to the Justice Center, please consider remaining in your vehicle, calling upon arrival, and allowing an officer to come out to you.

Kingsport Fire Department
The Kingsport Fire Department is still responding to emergencies and other citizen calls for service and will continue to do so.  The fire stations are open with limited entry points for visiting members of the public.

Kingsport Public Works
The Kingsport Public Works Department is essential to providing basic services to the citizens of Kingsport on a daily basis. The city is committed to the health and safety of all citizens and customers so all essential services will continue to operate throughout this event.

Kingsport Building, Development Services and Code Enforcement
For customers that need permits, inspections, planning and zoning or code enforcement, please follow the guidelines below. All the departments listed below can be found on the city website, kingsporttn.gov.

• For new permits, please call 423-229-9393 or use the online permit application found here.
• For planning and zoning, please call 423-229-9485.
• For code enforcement, please call 423-224-2633.
• For metro planning organization, please call 423-229-9332.
• For public works administration, please call 423-224-2465.

Kingsport Carousel
The Kingsport Carousel will remain closed until further notice.

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4/30/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 31

For a list of all his executive orders, please click here.

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4/29/2020

Governor Lee’s Executive Order 30

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4/24/2020

As our cities and counties move forward with reopening plans and procedures, local leaders remind citizens that we are not returning to “normal.” Our new normal will look different, with business and health precautions remaining a large part of everyday life. It is more important than ever to continue safe practices to avoid a spike in COVID-19 cases. These best practices – as outlined by the CDC and local health departments – have helped to keep the number of positive cases low in our region.

While facilities resume operations, it is imperative that everyone:

• Keep adequate social distance – maintain at least 6 feet between yourself and others when out in public.
• Limit gatherings – per Gov. Bill Lee, gatherings must be limited to 10 or less people.
• Wash hands – wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Wash your hands before eating or preparing food, after using the restroom, after coughing or sneezing, and after going anywhere in public.
• Avoid touching your face – avoid touching any part of your face, especially eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wear a cloth mask – masks not only lower the risk of you breathing in airborne viruses but greatly reduce you spreading a virus, even if you don’t feel ill. We now know that some of those positive for coronavirus are asymptomatic. Please use cloth masks and save medical-grade PPE for medical and frontline personnel.
• Disinfect surfaces – take time to disinfect all spaces, from work to vehicle to home. Clean frequently used items like mobile phones and keys.
• Stay home – if you’re feeling sick or think you might be sick, stay home.
• Avoid nonessential travel – at this time, it’s still best to avoid traveling outside the Tri-Cities area and to only leave your home for essential activities.

Area government leaders and health officials recognize the importance of reopening our area but doing so safely is crucial to its success. The path forward is a cautious one, as the safety and health of our communities remains the top priority.

With the best practices in mind, Kingsport will be following the Sullivan County Regional Health Department’s Public Health Order #2 starting Monday, April 27. Kingsport will issue an amendment next week to the current city declaration to put the order in place.

The order closely follows Governor Lee’s plan and his Tennessee Pledge plan for businesses. Restaurants and retail should follow the Tennessee Pledge plan for their reopening, paying special attention to the protecting employees and protecting customers guidelines.

The Sullivan County Regional Health Department plan lists special situations that our business owners and residents should be aware of. Those include:

• SCHOOLS AND ORGANIZED YOUTH ACTIVITIES (e.g. camps) that are currently closed remain closed.
• VISITS TO SENIOR LIVING FACILITIES AND HOSPITALS shall be prohibited. Those who do interact with residents and patients must adhere to strict protocols regarding hygiene.
• LARGE VENUES ( e.g. sit-down dining, movie theaters, sporting venues, places of worship) can operate under strict physical distancing protocols while following guidance issued by State of Tennessee specific to type of business. See Tennessee Pledge.
• Elective surgeries may resume, as clinically appropriate, following CDC protective guidelines, and specific guidance issued by the State of Tennessee.
• Dental Offices/healthcare practices may open while maintaining social distancing and following CDC recommendations with appropriate PPE and specific guidance issued by the State of Tennessee.
• Other non-essential businesses may open but adhere to strict social distancing guidelines, use precautionary measure, and follow guidance issued by the State of Tennessee specific to business type.
• Personal contact business (i.e., barber shops, nail salons, cosmetology business, etc.) that cannot maintain social distancing measures may not reopen until appropriate safety guidelines have been developed by the Tennessee Department of Health.

Our city’s directive is to maintain compliance with the health department’s public health order. Residents should watch for more information to be released next week in regards to the city’s plan for opening city and government facilities.

For more information or for questions, please contact the Sullivan County Regional Health Department at 423-279-2777.

Resources:

City of Kingsport COVID-19 Information

Sullivan County Regional Health Department Public Health Order #2

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Governor Lee made his reopening announcement earlier today. You can find it here.

While Kingsport and Sullivan County will adopt a similar plan to his, because we’re guided by the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, we will look to them to create our reopening plan.

Please be patient as we work to create the plan for our area, along with the rest of the Tri-Cities region, that will allow businesses to open back up but keep the safety and health of our residents as a continued top priority.

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4/21/2020

Sullivan County Regional Health Department spoke at the BMA meeting, giving an update on current cases, reopening plans and also answered questions from board members.

COVID-19 Update – April 21, 2020

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4/16/2020

Free COVID-19 Nasopharyngeal swab testing.

Beginning April 20-May 1 (Monday- Friday 1:00 pm-4:00 pm NO WEEKENDS)

154 Blountville Bypass
Blountville, TN 37617

Testing will be by appointment ONLY. Please call (423)279-2777 to schedule an appointment. Test results are expected to take 5-7 days.

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4/7/2020

City Service Update: New Customer Service Location

The City of Kingsport will no longer be accepting in person water/utility bill payments at the Justice Center. Starting Monday, April 13, customers who wish to pay their water bill in person will now have to visit the old KATS transit center building, located at 109 Clay Street.

Customer Service will be closed to the public Wednesday and Thursday for the move and will be closed for Good Friday, April 10. Customer Service will reopen in the old transit building on Clay Street starting Monday morning, April 13. Individuals wishing to open a new utility account and establish service or obtain a business license will continue to do so by appointment only. Please call 423-343-9860.

City officials still urge residents to stay home right now due to the safer at home health order issued last week and only leave their homes when necessary.

There will be no water cut-offs during the crisis, and in addition, there will be no late fees or non-payment fees.  When the pandemic has passed, customer service staff will work with customers to structure a repayment arrangement that can last up to 12 months.

Customers have several other options for payments and are encouraged to utilize them.

• Mail payments (utilities only) to PO Box 880, Kingsport, TN 37662
• Mail payments (anything) to 225 W. Center St., Kingsport, TN 37660
• Pay online at the city website KingsportTN.gov
• Pay over the phone by calling (423) 343-9860
• Drop box located outside city hall
• Pay in person at 109 Clay Street
• Pay in person at First Horizon Bank drive thru

If customers need to speak with Customer Service, they can be contacted as follows:

• Utility questions: call (423) 343-9860
• Tax questions: call (423) 229-9418
• Email: CustServiceCent@KingsportTN.gov

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4/2/2020

Executive Order 23 – Requiring Tennesseans to Remain at Home

Gov. Lee will sign Executive Order 23 requiring that Tennesseans stay home unless they are carrying out essential activities as data shows an increase in citizen movement across the state.

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3/31/2020

City Playgrounds Closing

Per the Executive Order from Governor Lee and at the decision of the City of Kingsport officials, playgrounds within the city will begin closing tomorrow, April 1. The playgrounds will be closed until further notice.

City park spaces, including Bays Mountain Park and the Greenbelt, will remain open and residents are encouraged to visit in small groups and continue practicing social distancing.

Kingsport would like to remind all residents to continue to follow the best practices, including washing hands correctly and as often as possible, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth, leaving home only for necessary trips and of course practicing social distancing in public spaces.

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Summer Program Registration Postponed

The Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department is postponing registration for their summer program due to the current COVID-19 situation. Parents who are interested in enrolling their child or children should check the parks and recreation website for updates.

For more information, please visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

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3/30/2020

SAFER AT HOME ORDER ISSUED

View the order here.

Sullivan County Regional Health Department (SCRHD) has issued a Safer at Home Health Order for the residents of Sullivan County starting 12:01 a.m. March 31 until further notice. SCRHD and the City of Kingsport believe this order is necessary to protect the health of all residents.

Today, March 30, Mayor Shull Mayor endorsed the Safer at Home Health Order put in place by the SCRHD by signing Executive Order 20-01 Proclaiming a Local and Civil Emergency within the City of Kingsport. The Mayor’s signature will be ratified at the electronically conducted called Board of Mayor and Aldermen business meeting tomorrow, March 31, at 7:00 p.m.

This order is being issued now because it is urgent to slow the community spread of COVID-19 in Sullivan County. The goal of this order is to slow down the spread to ensure adequate health care resources for those who get sick with COVID-19, along with adequate care for emergency medical needs.

This order requires residents of Sullivan County to stay inside their homes unless they are engaged in ‘essential activities.’ If residents must leave their homes, it is vital to practice social distancing and stay at least six feet away from others.

Essential activities include:

• Going to work if employed at an essential workplace
• Going to the grocery and warehouse stores
• Going to the pharmacy
• Going to medical appointments – check with doctor and follow necessary precautions
• Going to restaurants for takeout or drive-thru
• Caring for a sick family member
• Helping someone get needed supplies
• Taking your pet to the veterinarian if necessary
• Being in nature for fresh air or exercise – practicing social distancing is vital

Residents should not:

• Visit family or friends unless necessary
• Visit loved ones in the hospitals, nursing home or other residential care facility
• Go to work unless providing essential services as defined in this order
• Be in close proximity to others – practicing social distancing is vital

Businesses within Sullivan County and Kingsport city limits that have questions about essential workplaces should reach out to SCRHD at 423-279-2777. Businesses can also visit https://www.cisa.gov/identifying-critical-infrastructure-during-covid-19 for more information.

For more information, please visit www.sullivanhealth.org.

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The City of Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department is in the process of removing rims from basketball courts, per recommendations from the CDC and National Parks Association. Parks will remain open, but the city is strongly encouraging any visitors to practice social distancing and limit groups to 3 or less.

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3/27/2020

The City of Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department has placed signage at city parks stating park visitors need to practice social distancing when visiting, bringing their own water, bringing hand sanitizer, washing their hands when possible and keeping groups under 10 people.

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3/25/2020

Building Department Open for Business via Online or Phone

The City of Kingsport building department has closed its doors to the public in an effort to protect citizens and staff, but is still open for business. The city encourages the development community to keep in contact with Development Services via phone or email to check on the status of a project or with any questions or concerns.

Development Services will do its best to keep all projects moving forward at the best pace possible. It is important to note that there may be a delay in turn-around time for items such as subdivision plats which require original signatures.  This is due to some of our required signatories working from home during this time. These employees will schedule time to come into the office to sign those documents at their earliest convenience.  Also – please note that the County Register of Deeds is only recording documents by appointment at this time.

All applications can be found on the city website at the following links:

Planning/Development related applications: https://www.kingsporttn.gov/planning-commission/

Building Department related applications: https://www.kingsporttn.gov/city-services/building/building-permit-application/

Contact Information:

Building Division: (423) 229-9393

Planning & Zoning: (423) 229-9485

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3/24/2020

3/23/2020

Within the public facing departments, important services to the citizens of Kingsport will be altered at noon today, March 23, to take precautions with the current COVID-19 pandemic. These alterations are expected to be in place for at least the next 6-8 weeks, to protect both employees and residents.

Kingsport City Hall – Customer Service
The customer service center will close to the public at noon. Please review the changes below.

• For customers who need new service, customer service will work with the customer to get the needed documentation through email and text. Call 423-343-9860.
• Utility payments can be made in person at the Justice Center. Enter through the main entrance, and you will be directed to the correct window.
• Customers have several other options available to pay their utility bills. Kingsport encourages the use of these during this time.
  • Pay online at the city website kingsporttn.gov.
  • Pay over the phone by calling 423-343-9860.
  • Drop box located outside city hall.
  • Mail to PO Box 880, Kingsport, TN 37662 or 225 W. Center Street, Kingsport, TN 37660

Improvement Building – Building, Development Services, Code Enforcement
For customers that need permits, inspections, planning and zoning or code enforcement, please follow the guidelines below. All the departments listed below can be found on the city website, kingsporttn.gov.

• For new permits, please call 423-229-9393 or use the online permit application found here.
• For planning and zoning, please call 423-229-9485.
• For code enforcement, please call 423-224-2633.
• For metro planning organization, please call 423-229-9332.
• For public works administration, please call 423-224-2465.

Sullivan County Offices located in City Hall
The offices located in City Hall are the Sullivan County Clerk, Chancery Court and Law Court. For more information, please contact the offices directly.

• Sullivan County Clerk: 423-224-1726
• Chancery Court: 423-224-1790
• Law Court: 423-224-1724

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3/20/2020

Essential services to the citizens of Kingsport are being altered to take precautions with the current COVID-19 pandemic. The departments that deal primarily with the public have taken steps, expected to be in place for the next 6-8 weeks, to protect both employees and residents.

Kingsport Police Department
In light of current events, citizens should rest assured that the Kingsport Police Department is still responding to emergencies and other citizen calls for service and will continue to do so. With that in mind, for the time being, citizens may notice some minor changes in police interactions. For example:

• Whenever possible, routine reports, especially those non-criminal in nature, may be handled over the telephone.
• Whenever possible, officers may avoid entering homes, and instead communicate with citizens outside, unless it is absolutely necessary to enter the residence.
• Whenever possible, officers will try to observe the recommended 6-foot distance from citizens and avoid shaking hands.
• The Kingsport Justice Center will remain open; however, citizens are respectfully requested to not come to the Justice Center unless absolutely necessary. If your need can be handled via telephone, please call.
• If you absolutely need to come to the Justice Center, please consider remaining in your vehicle, calling upon arrival, and allowing an officer to come out to you.

We currently are and will continue to follow CDC recommended guidelines, particularly those involving hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE), and social-distancing. Some internal precautions that have already been put into place include:

• All non-essential training and travel has been suspended.
• Disposable equipment is being utilized as much as possible.
• Disinfecting stations have been created for proper cleaning of persons, vehicles, and other equipment.
• Community relations programs such as citizen ride-alongs and Justice Center tours have been suspended.

To reiterate, none of these changes will affect the Kingsport Police Department’s ability to respond to emergencies or other citizen calls for service.

For questions regarding K.P.D., please reach out to Tom Patton at 423-229-9433.

Kingsport Fire Department
The K.F.D. is making every effort to limit the exposure to employees.

• All business travel has been suspended; supervisors will question employees on travel plans from now until the end of June; recommend self-quarantine if employee shows any signs or symptoms
• All public education programs have been suspended
• Routine fire inspections, unless vital, have been suspended
• Recruitment school has been suspended
• Only in-house and online training permissible
• All stations have secured main entrances – no guests beyond the foyer and bay doors to remain closed at all times
• All employees must enter through main entrance each shift and complete the health questionnaire and have their temperature taken

For questions regarding K.F.D., please reach out to Barry Brickey at 423-224-2820.

Kingsport Public Works
The Kingsport Public Works Department is essential to providing basic services to the citizens of Kingsport on a daily basis. The city is committed to the health and safety of all citizens and customers so all essential services will continue to operate throughout this event.

Understanding that access to clean water is key to the prevention of the spread of COVID-19, or coronavirus, Kingsport will keep water on for all customers despite unpaid utility bills during this event.

Within Public Works Operations, the primary focus at the present time is to prevent the spread of the virus among our employees. The steps that have been taken include:

• Suspended all large group meetings
• Limited group gathering to the crew level size
• Offset shift schedules in larger divisions by increments of 30 minutes
• Assignment of work tasks remotely via the Cartegraph system
• Increased disinfectant of surfaces at division locations
• Increased signage encouraging preventative measures (social distancing, hand washing, coughing/sneezing etiquette)

The following actions have been taken to limit public interaction:

• Suspension of the Historic Zoning Commission and Gateway Commission
• Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals have moved to the Civic Auditorium to provide adequate social distancing standards
• Earlier in the year, to secure the building and provide limited access to the building division, planning division and GIS was completed

Emergency preparation is underway to ensure critical staffing levels are maintained within the water, wastewater and sanitation divisions.

For questions regarding public works, please reach out to Ryan McReynolds at 423-229-9471.

Kingsport Customer Service
Kingsport Customer Service is essential to City operations and continues to remain open to the public at this time. However, several steps are being taken to protect employees and customers.

• Kingsport is keeping water on during this event. Effective March 16, all late payments and all penalties are suspended to minimize the public traffic at city hall. While service will not be terminated during the extended period, customers will still be billed for water and wastewater services and past-due balances will continue to accrue if payment is not made.
• When operations return to normal, customers will be asked to sign a payment agreement for any unpaid water/utility bills. An extension form 6 months to 12 months for the agreement timeframe has been put in place.
• For customers needing new service, customer service will try to work with the customer to get the needed documentation through email and text.
• As of March 18, a plexiglass barrier was installed to separate employees from customers to reduce spread of germs.
• Enhanced cleaning routines have been established throughout the customer service department.
• A contingency plan has been established to allow utility payments to be made at the police department in the event city hall has to be closed to the public.
• Customers have several options available to pay their utility bills:
  • Mail in payments
  • Pay online at the city website KingsportTN.gov
  • Pay over the phone by calling (423) 343-9860
  • Drop box located outside city hall
  • Mail to PO Box 880, Kingsport, TN 37662 or 225 W Center Street, Kingsport, TN 37660

For questions regarding customer service, please reach out to Lisa Winkle at 423-229-9335.

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3/19/2020

Letter to the Citizens of Kingsport and Surrounding Region

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3/18/2020

1:00pm: Effective at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, these city facilities are closed until further notice.

• Civic Auditorium: Closing at 5:00 p.m. with the exception of essential public meetings for city commissions.
• The Mansion and all associated Allandale facilities. The park and grounds will remain open.
• Sports facilities: Eastman Park at Horse Creek complex and Lynn View Community Center athletic fields. The walking track will remain open.

9:00am: At the recommendation of the CDC and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the City of Kingsport will close the Kingsport Public Library and all other community centers, effective 5 p.m. on Thursday until further notice. Additionally, all rentals of city facilities are suspended until at least April 3.

This decision comes from City Manager Chris McCartt. All programs, classes and events were suspended indefinitely on Monday. At this time, all other city offices remain open.

This information is subject to change as the city continues to monitor the evolving situation surrounding COVID-19. Kingsport looks to the SCRHD and the CDC for recommendations and additional information.

Facility List

• Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium: All park buildings—Nature Center, herpetarium, etc.—will be closed, but the park itself will remain open to the public. The Nature Center bathrooms, accessible from outside the building, will remain open.
• Kingsport Aquatic Center: Closed until further notice.
• Kingsport Carousel: Closing Wednesday at noon (previously released).
• Kingsport Farmers Market: The market will delay its opening until Saturday, May 2.
• Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts: All programs and classes are suspended.
• Kingsport Public Library: The library will close to the public. Due dates on materials currently in possession will be extended, and late fees will not apply. Holds and donations will not be available during the closure. Visit kingsportlibrary.org for access to digital resources at any time, including e-books, audiobooks and other virtual programs.
• Kingsport Parks and Recreation: All of Kingsport’s parks and on-site bathrooms will remain open to the public, but all programming including athletics are suspended. Lynn View Community Center and the V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex will close. Ballfields, including Brickyard and Domtar Park, will also close.
• Kingsport Senior Center: Closing Wednesday at noon (previously released)
• Renaissance Center: Closing Wednesday at noon (previously released)

Rental Recommendations
If you have rented a city facility between now and April 3, please contact the facility. As of March 17, the CDC recommends that for the next 15 days, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events of 10 or more people; and for the next eight weeks, cancel events of 50 or more people. If anyone who has already booked a rental has questions or wishes to cancel, please reach out to the facility directly.

For up-to-date information on the city’s response to COVID-19, please visit kingsporttn.gov.

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3/17/2020

At the recommendation of the Sullivan County Regional Health Department and the most recent CDC guidelines, the City of Kingsport Senior Center and Renaissance Center will be closing at noon tomorrow (March 18) and will remain closed until further notice. The Kingsport Carousel will not open during their regular scheduled operating hours at all tomorrow and will remain closed until further notice.

Kingsport Senior Center

Starting March 18, at 12:00 p.m., the Kingsport Senior Center and Renaissance Center facility, including all branch sites, will be closed until further notice.

For those who take part in the congregate meals, individuals can find instructions on how continue receiving meals while the facility is closed on the website or can call 423-392-8400.

The Kingsport Senior Center will continue to post updates as the city receives further recommendations from the Sullivan County Health Department and the CDC.

Thank you for your understanding as we do our part to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Please see our website (www.kingsportseniorcenter.org) or social media channels for the most up-to-date information.

For more information, please visit www.kingsportseniorcenter.org.

Kingsport Carousel

Starting March 18, the Kingsport Carousel will not open for its regular schedule operating hours. It will remain closed until further notice. The carousel will continue to post updates on its social media channels as the city receives further recommendations.

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3/16/2020

As of today, March 16, all city-sponsored programs, classes and events have been suspended indefinitely. This decision comes from City Manager Chris McCartt at the recommendation of the CDC and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department.

As of this statement’s release, all city facilities will remain open under normal operating hours. Any programs open to the public are suspended until further notice. Staff will attempt to reschedule any paid programs and honor tickets that have already been sold. Any customer who wishes to cancel should reach out to the respective facility.

This information is subject to change as the city continues to monitor the evolving situation surrounding COVID-19. Kingsport looks to the SCRHD and the CDC for recommendations and additional information.

Facility List

• Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium: The park will remain open, but all programs—planetarium shows, astronomy programs, nature program, etc.—are suspended.
• Kingsport Aquatic Center: The facility will remain open, but all swim lessons, water aerobics classes, training courses and other programs are suspended.
• Kingsport Carousel: The carousel will follow its current operating schedule.
• Kingsport Farmers Market: The market will delay its opening until Saturday, May 2.
• Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts: All programs and classes are suspended.
• Kingsport Public Library: The library will remain open, but all programs, classes and club meetings are suspended.
• Kingsport Parks and Recreation: All of Kingsport’s parks will remain open to the public, but all programming including athletics are suspended. Open gym hours at Lynn View Community Center and the V.O. Dobbins Center are also suspended.
• Kingsport Senior Center: All programs and classes are suspended, but the lounge and other facility spaces will remain open. The Renaissance Center’s open gym hours are also suspended.

Rental Recommendations
At this time, the city is not canceling any rentals within the above facilities, but urges citizens to follow CDC guidelines. As of March 15, the CDC recommends that for the next eight weeks, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events of more than 50 people, according to cdc.gov. If anyone who has already booked a rental has questions or wishes to cancel, please reach out to the facility directly.

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3/13/2020

As of March 13, all city facilities are operating as normal and all programs will run as scheduled unless otherwise posted.

The City of Kingsport looks to the Sullivan County Regional Health Department and the CDC for recommendations and the most up-to-date information on the evolving COVID-19 situation. As of today, the SCRHD does not recommend we alter facility or program schedules at this time. This is subject to change as the SCRHD monitors our local situation.

Please visit here to learn the most current updates from the CDC.