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WELLSBURG -- The Brooke County Courthouse is among public places that are opening gradually following the state-ordered stay-at-home order, and county officials have been taking measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
On Tuesday, Brooke County Sheriff Larry Palmer asked the county commissioners when the building will be fully open to the public, noting residents and others currently are being asked to make appointments by calling the departments where they have business.
Commission President Tim Ennis said the commission is awaiting word from Gov. Jim Justice about the opening of public buildings.
To date, Justice has permitted the reopening of small businesses with 10 or fewer employees, wellness centers operated by licensed health care providers and providing rehabilitation services, and drive-in movie theaters.
In addition to providing takeout orders, restaurants can offer outdoor dining, with space conditions applied. The Brooke County Health Department has reminded owners of such businesses smoking is prohibited wherever food is served, indoors or outdoors.
Also reopened are barbershops, hair salons, cosmetologists and pet groomers, provided they follow certain criteria, including appointments to prevent contact among customers.
County Commissioner Stacey Wise said a part-time custodian has been hired solely to disinfect areas of frequent contact, such as elevators, railings in the stairwell and desks used by visitors.
Ennis said all visitors are required to wear masks, per recommendation by the county health department, and courthouse staff have been encouraged but not required to wear them.
Palmer said some people appearing for court hearings recently arrived without masks.
Mike Bolen, administrator of the health department, said he has a limited supply of masks that may be given to any visitor without one.
Palmer was told attorneys handling cases at the courthouse have been asked to remind their clients about the masks.
County Commissioner A.J. Thomas said those planning to visit the courthouse are asked to make an appointment by calling the relevant department. He said many neighboring counties continue to follow that policy.
For appointments or information, call the sheriff's department at (304) 737-3660 ext. 1; tax department, (304) 737-3663; assessor's office, (304) 737-3667; county clerk's office, (304) 737-3661; circuit court, (304) 737-3662; health department, (304) 737-3665; and voter registration, (304) 737-3668.
Ennis noted residents may do much of their county business, including paying taxes, by phone, mail or the Internet.
"A lot of people are finding there's so much they can do without coming here," he said.