Southampton Town will reopen its Town Hall on Monday after it was closed for several weeks during the shutdown. The hours will be 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
On Thursday, Frank Zappone, the deputy town supervisor, outlined the changes to the building and to its operation in response to Covid-19 health concerns. He told the town board during a work session that to avoid lines, visitors are encouraged to make an appointment to visit a town office, such as the Building Department or town clerk. Such appointments can be made by calling that office directly.
It is not always necessary to visit an office. Many forms are available on the town's website and can be printed out and completed at home. Town Hall has a dropbox on the first floor where they can be deposited.
While the building was closed, its offices and hallways were modified to address health and safety protocols. There are markings on the sidewalk outside the building to stand on while waiting to check in, and on the floors in offices where the number of visitors allowed in at a time will be limited. Each staircase will be one way, so no one will have to pass each other in the stairwell. Plexiglas barriers have been installed at the counters and hand sanitizer will be available. All visitors will be required to wear face masks.
Public access to the building will be limited to the main entrance. Employees will use a separate entrance to discourage crowding. Those with disabilities can call for an escort to the handicapped entrance.