Replays Now Showing on CSi TV 10 & CSi 67.

Jamestown  (CSi)  A news briefing was held on Friday March 20, 2020 at City Hall in Jamestown, regarding COVID-19 local response in Stutsman County.   On hand at the meeting were representatives from:

Central Valley Health District, City of Jamestown, Stutsman County Sheriff’s Department, Jamestown Police Department, Jamestown Public Schools, Jamestown Regional Medical Center.  Video as aired Live on CSi TV 10.

Mayor Dwaine Heinrich said he is addressing not only the health aspects, but also the financial ramifications of the pandemic limiting access to businesses.

He urges citizens to follow health guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.  He said the protection of citizens is the city’s first priority.  He added that all city services are continuing, and Jamestown water is safe to drink.  He said citizens need to continue with sacrifices during this time, as social, religious norms and our way of life have changed, and stresses the need for social distancing, and washing of hands with soap and water, and covering mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing,  to limit the spread of the virus germs.

Central Valley Health District Administrator Robin Iszler said, as of Friday, March 20, 2020 there have been NO POSTIVE CORNONA VIRUS TEST RESULTS RECEIVED, either from Stutsman or Logan Counties. CVHD is working continuously with the State Health Department with briefings and updated information, adding that CVHD has been distributing healthcare information, including how individuals can help prevent the spread of the virus, including social distancing.

She said plans are in place in the event a positive Coronavirus test is received, and that a Stutsman County Unified Command Center is being established, with information to be disseminated.

Central Valley Health District has banned walk-ins, however the office can be contacted with questions or concerns.   (701-252-8130.)

 

Stutsman County Sheriff Chad Kaiser said the Sheriff Office is operating normally, and that deputies are practicing Social Distancing when in contact with the public, and may be wearing protective gear.

He pointed out that calls may be responded to over the phone if appropriate, rather than in person.

He said Stutsman County offices are closed to walk-ins, however phones have been established inside the main door to contract employees who continue to work in the courthouse.

 

Jamestown Police Chief Scott Edinger said the Police Department is operational with officers on patrol in the city, and that laws will continue to be enforced, and that officers may respond to calls over the phone instead of in person, depending on the situation.  Officers will observe social distancing and may be wearing protective gear.

 

Jamestown School Superintendent, Robert Lech said the school district continues to work with Central Valley Health, for guidelines along with State Health Department officials.  He said school building cleanings were done for sanitizing, and the school district has been planning for providing on line classroom instruction which will begin on Monday March 23, 2020, through March 31, 2020.  He said the school district is making sure homes have computers and internet connections to access their students live classroom instruction.  He said on Thursday this week 230 free on site meals were given out and 360 on Friday, adding that the free meals will continue to be available, while school is not in session at the distribution sites.  He said to call ahead to order the meals, at each school location.  Some deliveries are available.

 

Jamestown Regional Medical Center, CEO and President, Mike Delfs said visitor restrictions continue, with visitors admitted for only specific reasons, outlined in the hospital policy.   Call JRMC with questions.   He said the hospital’s sanitizing robot is being used, along with standard sanitizing practices.   Staff travel is limited.  JRMC is working with the State Hospital in Jamestown, along with clinics and all healthcare providers, and is following guidelines set by the CDC concerning virus screenings and testing.   He said the hospital staff meets daily, including medical supplies inventory, and potential bed space available needed in the event of a regional epidemic.

As of Friday, March 20, 2020 the hospital has administered 12 Coronavirus tests with NO POSITIVE RESULTS.   He said JRMC continues to work with officials with the State Health Department with updated information and guidelines.

Friday’s meeting was shown live on CSi Cable 67, followed by replays.