Webster City parks, playgrounds and the skate park are officially open, following lifting of some of the restrictions implemented to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Fuller Hall will also reopen, though its use will be restricted to those over age 18 who wish to use the weight and cardio rooms.

Today also marks the reopening of City Hall, though area residents will need to make an appointment if they wish to enter the building.

According to City Manager Jeff Sheridan, the reopening of city buildings and services are all part of a slow and methodical plan.

“I think the city has all along had a plan of opening up a little bit at a time,” Sheridan said. The plan of action was put together in conjunction with Hamilton County Public Health while adhering to the directions outlined in Gov. Kim Reynolds proclamations.

“We think that’s the right step – taking small steps moving forward,” he said. He credited his staff for making sure the city could continue to operate during these challenging times. A committee of city department heads has been meeting weekly to discuss the coronavirus and how the pandemic impacts city services.

“We’re hopeful as we move forward that the virus doesn’t get any worse so we have to take any steps backwards,” Sheridan said. “But we’re prepared to deal with whatever the situation may be. Good lord willing, we’ll continue to move forward until we’re back to what was considered normal.”

He encouraged area residents to continue to use the online options, telephone or drop box as much as possible.

The City Council has been meeting via video conferencing for the past two and half months. Sheridan said he expects that the council may discuss returning to live session and what that might look like at tonight’s meeting.

“I think we’ve been pleasantly surprised at how well the Zoom meetings have worked. People can see each other, talk to each to other and take questions from the public. I’ve really received no negative comments about this format,” he said.

“The return to live sessions will really be whatever the Mayor and City Council are comfortable with,” he said.

The following are the guidelines for the reopening of city hall:

Utility Office – (515)- 832-9141. Payments including Utility, Permits and Accounts Receivable can still be made via the drop box, mail or online at Xpress Bill Pay (xpressbillpay.com or use the link on the City’s web page at webstercity.com), at this point the service fee continues to be waived. To transfer, terminate service, or for new service call office at (515)-832-9141. Forms for rebates can be found on the home page of the city website (webstercity.com. Mail or use drop box on west side of building to return the application, copy of receipt and energy star verification if applicable. If using the drop box, please do not fold envelopes to fit unless you call to tell staff beforehand. The drop box is meant for regular-sized envelopes and can get jammed easily to the point of other items are not able to pass through.

Public Works, Zoning & Inspection – (515)-832-9139. The following can be handled without coming into City Hall — Permits, Inspection Requests, Nuisance Complaints, Code Questions.

City Manager’s Office – (515)-832-9151

For residents who believe they must visit City Hall, call the appropriate number listed to see if an appointment should be scheduled. Most service requests can be handled without having to physically come into City Hall. If not, an appointment time will be set and the following guidelines will apply:

• Only the visitor with the appointment will be allowed in the building.

• It is requested that visitors wear a face covering to their appointment.

• All visitors will be expected to use the main door (west front side of the building on Second Street) to enter and exit the building. If ADA accessibility is required, please let the staff member know when you schedule your appointment, and you will be instructed as needed.

• The staff member will meet you at the door to let you in and escort you to the appointment room directly inside the front door and escort you out when the appointment has concluded. Residents are asked not to enter City Hall if they are experiencing any of the following flu-like/respiratory symptoms:

• Fever of 100 degrees or more Fahrenheit

• Chronic Coughing and/or Sneezing

• Shortness of Breath

• Any other flu-like symptoms.

In keeping with the Governor’s public health proclamation, vulnerable persons, including those with preexisting medical conditions and those older than 65 should continue to limit their activities outside of their home, including visits to City Hall for any purpose.