GETTING VACCINATED OR A BOOSTER

• CDC Vaccine Information
• CDC Booster Information

GETTING TESTED BEFORE A GATHERING

• U.S. households may order up to four free at-home test kits. Visit the United States Postal Service (USPS) website.
• Find a testing center near you
• Inquire with your local pharmacy or health department about available take-home test kits.
• The Westerville Public Library distributes free take-home test kits as they are available. Supplies are limited. Please call ahead to confirm if kits are available.
• Please Note: It is unclear if the Westerville Fire Division will receive more test kits for public distribution. Any future events will be announced on this page. 

IMPROVING VENTILATION
The CDC says that improving airflow indoors can help prevent the accumulation of virus particles in the air. Use the "Interactive Ventilation Tool" to see how certain steps can help adjust particle levels in your home.

• CDC: Improving Ventilation in Your Home

WEARING A MASK

• CDC Guide to Masks

PRACTICING PROPER HAND HYGIENE 

• CDC hand washing web page

Staff continues to keep public health and safety at the forefront of community event planning. Please contact the City Manager’s Office with questions: (614) 901-6400.

Westerville’s public health system needs residents to remain committed to stopping the spread and to help prevent a surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations. Commit to washing hands, staying home when sick, covering coughs and sneezes, as well as considering getting vaccinated or a booster.

Vaccine Information:

• State of Ohio Resources

Testing:

• Franklin County Public Health (FCPH) is announcing a number of COVID-19 testing locations. Find information on the FCPH website.
  • Childcare/School Recommendations

Cloth Masks

• Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security (FCEM&HS)
• What you should know about cloth masks
  • Reduce the Risk of COVID-19 Exposure with Home Sewn Masks
  • Franklin County Public Health Face Mask FAQ
  • COVID-19 Checklist for Cloth Face Coverings (Masks)
  • Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19

State of Ohio:

• Ohio Governor's Office of Workforce Transformation Job Postings
• Avoid COVID-19 Scams
• The State will follow the federal tax filing and payment deadline extension to July 15.
• Childcare for Essential Workers (Interactive Map)
• COVID-19 Hotline
  • Open every day from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. at 1 (833) 4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634)
• Coronavirus and Unemployment Benefits
  • Q&A Page
• Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services offers extended hours for Mental Health Information and Referral Hotline
  • Open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. at 1 (877) 275-6364
  • Ohio Crisis Text Line | Text keyword "4HOPE" to 741741
• Coronavirus Care Hotline: 1 (800) 720-9616
  • Open 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., rolls over to National Suicide Prevention Hotline after 8 p.m.
    
    

Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC)

• Central Ohio COVID-19 Resource Hub
  
  

Franklin County:

• Franklin County Public Health (FCPH)
• Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security (FCEM&HS)
• HandsOn Central Ohio
• Franklin County Board of Commissioners Office on Aging
• IMPACT Community Action (Emergency Assistance)
  

Delaware County:

• Delaware County Public Health District
• Bridges Community Action Partnership (Emergency Assistance)
• HelpLine of Delaware and Morrow Counties, Inc.
  

Federal Government:

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Rumor Control
• Federal Government's response to COVID-19
• U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Program
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Dealing with Debt During the Pandemic (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau)
  
  

City of Westerville:

• Stay "On The Alert." Sign up to receive emergency text alerts from the City.
  
  

Public Transportation:

• COTA//Plus

Shop Local:

• COVID-19 Checklist for Supporting Local Business
• Support Local Ohio Businesses
• Visit the Westerville Area Chamber's website for ways to support Westerville businesses
• Uptown Westerville Inc. is maintaining a list of Uptown businesses providing services at this time.

Visit the City's Economic Development website for a robust list of resources for businesses.

Based on recommendations from local public health experts and the status of “severe” spread in Franklin County, the City of Westerville is enacting the following changes for public buildings, meetings and events. Please check this page frequently for updates.

Masks and facial coverings are required in Westerville.

Wednesday, July 22

The COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing in the United States, with the state of Ohio reporting a steady increase in infection rates. 

On Wednesday, July 22, Governor Mike DeWine announced a mask/face covering mandate while in public for ages 10 and over in all counties in Ohio. 

This action is effective as of 6 p.m. Thursday, July 23.  

Specifically, masks/facial coverings must be worn in the following situations:

• Individuals in any indoor location that is not a residence;
• Individuals who are outdoors and unable to consistently maintain a distance of six feet or more from individuals who are not members of their household;
• Individuals utilizing public transportation (waiting, riding, driving or operating, including taxi, private transportation or ride-sharing).

EXEMPTIONS | and new travel advisories are listed here.

ENFORCEMENT | FCPH is the enforcement agency for the ODH Order. This is a public health order. Therefore, the Westerville Division of Police (WPD) will respond to disturbances and emergencies, but not complaints related to individuals not wearing masks in Westerville.

If you are concerned about another individual NOT wearing a mask, please follow these steps:

1. At a business, restaurant, etc: Ask to speak to the manager first. Request the customer comply with the public health order.
2. Report repetitive non-compliance problems to FCPH online at www.myfcph.org.
3. Contact WPD only if a non-compliant customer is causing a disturbance: (614) 882-7444.
4. Call 9-1-1 only in an EMERGENCY. A customer or other individual not wearing a mask is NOT an emergency.

SCHOOLS | Westerville City Schools are required to follow the guidelines and mandates of the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) and existing ODH Orders. The ODH Order does not address schools: they are covered under the separate guidelines and requirements per the ODE and ODH.

RESOURCES | 

Sign for businesses

Sign for customers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is required in the City of Westerville now? 

Based on Franklin County’s position on the Public Health Advisory System, the wearing of a mask or facial covering is now required in Westerville in both counties in which the city is located. 

Ohio Department of Health Order “Director's Order for Facial Coverings in Butler, Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, Huron, Montgomery, and Trumbull Counties in Level 3 Public Health Advisory”.

City of Westerville Executive Order

How will it be enforced?

Governor DeWine has expressly stated the ODH Order’s objective is to help keep citizens safe, not to be punitive. That philosophy is shared by the City of Westerville and WPD. Please see notes on Enforcement above.

How long will this last?

Governor DeWine said the state’s Order will remain in place as long as required.

Wednesday, June 10

City playgrounds, park restrooms and the Thomas James Knox Rink reopened on Wednesday, June 10. Now, Westerville Parks & Recreation is announcing its reopening procedures for the Westerville Community Center and more. Visit www.westerville.org/welcomeback for full details. 

Wednesday, June 3

As of June 1, Westerville City Hall (including Mayor's Court customer windows) and 64 E. Walnut St. are open to the public.

Mayor's Court Operations resume on June 3. Additionally, the Planning & Development Department introduces updated procedures the week of June 1. 

The Electric Division, Water Division, Public Service Department and Parks Maintenance facility remain closed to the public until further notice.

Please be assured the City is adopting measures to encourage social distancing and improve safety for employees and the public. Please consider the following options first:

• Visit the City website for information
• Use the Tell Westerville mobile app
• Phone call (Find City department numbers)
• Request a staff virtual meeting
• If absolutely necessary, contact staff for a personal meeting which will be conducted at an appropriate social distance.

Should you have an immediate need to visit a City facility, please be aware that you will be encouraged to wear a facial covering, stand six feet apart from other customers and conduct business through glass transaction windows or through plexiglass barriers. In advance, we appreciate your cooperation. Stay safe.

The City of Westerville is committed to providing updates related to COVID-19 management. The City website is always the most up-to-date source of information locally. Scroll below and use the accordion buttons for more information.

Friday, May 29

As of June 1, Westerville City Hall (including Mayor's Court customer windows) and 64 E. Walnut St. are open to the public.

Westerville City Council, Board and Commission meetings will resume in Council Chambers the week of June 1. Mayor's Court Operations resume on June 3. Additionally, the Planning & Development Department introduces updated procedures the week of June 1. 

The Electric Division, Water Division, Public Service Department and Parks Maintenance facility remain closed to the public until further notice.

Please be assured the City is adopting measures to encourage social distancing and improve safety for employees and the public. Please consider the following options first:

• Visit the City website for information
• Use the Tell Westerville mobile app
• Phone call (Find City department numbers)
• Request a staff virtual meeting
• If absolutely necessary, contact staff for a personal meeting which will be conducted at an appropriate social distance.

Should you have an immediate need to visit a City facility, please be aware that you will be encouraged to wear a facial covering, stand six feet apart from other customers and conduct business through glass transaction windows or through plexiglass barriers. In advance, we appreciate your cooperation. Stay safe.

The City of Westerville is committed to providing updates related to COVID-19 management. The City website is always the most up-to-date source of information locally. Scroll below and use the accordion buttons for more information.

Wednesday, May 27

As of June 1, Westerville City Hall (including Mayor's Court customer windows) and 64 E. Walnut St. are open to the public. The Westerville Division of Police, Electric Division, Water Division, Public Service Department and Parks Maintenance facility will continue to remain closed to the public until further notice.

Please be assured the City is adopting measures to encourage social distancing and improve safety for employees and the public. Please consider the following options first:

• Visit the City website for information
• Use the Tell Westerville mobile app
• Phone call (Find City department numbers)
• Request a staff virtual meeting
• If absolutely necessary, contact staff for a personal meeting which will be conducted at an appropriate social distance.

Should you have an immediate need to visit a City facility, please be aware that you will be encouraged to wear a facial covering, stand six feet apart from other customers and conduct business through glass transaction windows or through plexiglass barriers. In advance, we appreciate your cooperation. Stay safe.

The City of Westerville is committed to providing updates related to COVID-19 management. The City website is always the most up-to-date source of information locally. Scroll below and use the accordion buttons for more information

Gov. Mike DeWine announced a new public health order that modified much of the Stay Safe Ohio Order. Click here to read it.

Friday, May 22

WESTERVILLE ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE TO REOPEN/RESUME FACILITIES, PROGRAMS

Outdoor Pool to Remain Closed on Franklin County Public Health Recommendation

(WESTERVILLE, OH) -- The City of Westerville Parks & Recreation Department announces its facility reopening schedule in response to recent announcements from Governor DeWine.

Reopening Tuesday, May 26

• Outdoor tennis and pickleball courts
• Skate Park
• Dog Park

Reopening Monday, June 15 with limitations

• Westerville Community Center

NOT opening for the 2020 season based on the recommendation from Franklin County Public Health (FCPH)

• Highlands Park Aquatic Center

Remaining CLOSED until further notice

• Westerville Community Center indoor pool
• Everal Barn
• Playgrounds
• Basketball courts
• Thomas Knox Hockey Rink
• Hanby Park Splash Pad
• Senior Center
• Park Shelters
• Water Fountains
• Sports Fields (contact sports)

NEW cancellations for summer programs

• Summer Day Camps
• Summer Adult Sports (softball)
• HPAC Swim Lessons
• Sounds of Summer Concert Series
• Lunch Box Music Series
• Summer Theater
• Westerville Jazz Series

On Thursday, May 14, Governor DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) announced a schedule allowing certain parks and recreation facilities to reopen or resume. On Tuesday, May 19, the state’s stay-at-home order was lifted, although the limit for gatherings remains at no more than 10 people.

The difficult decisions to modify, cancel or otherwise close facilities were made based on a number of factors, with public safety guiding all considerations.

“Westerville Parks & Recreation has been planning its schedule for many weeks, carefully considering the implications on the safe management, maintenance as well as budgetary impacts of various programs and activities,” said David Collinsworth, Westerville City Manager. “In the final analysis, the health, safety and welfare of the public and our staff was the preeminent concern.”

The decision to close HPAC for the season was among the most difficult, but guided by the recommendation of FCPH.

The recommendation from FCPH, along with guidelines from ODH, require a number of modifications and practices to minimize risk of COVID-19 contagion and accommodate social distancing. These conditions would require significantly reduced admissions for visitors each day, as much as 82% below capacity. The customer service implications of inequity and access to a public facility is a major factor in the consideration. 

Limited hours of operations would also impact visitors. Administrators also determined a shortened season would not make sense for operations based on pool preparation, staff hiring and training requirements.

While portions of the Westerville Community Center remain under construction, completed portions are expected to reopen with a series of precautions and limitations. The modifications for this facility opening June 15 include: 

• Temperature checks for all visitors and staff entering the facility
• Face coverings must be worn by visitors and staff
• Social distancing will be strictly enforced
• Facility capacity will be 50% of occupancy
• No locker storage will be provided; patrons will be required to keep their belongings with them at all times. 
• Fitness areas will be frequently disinfected (by user) and strictly enforced
• No games will be allowed in the gymnasium for social distancing compliance. No shared equipment. 
• Single-file only use on the track for walking and jogging
• Similar to HPAC, the pool operation is required to meet ODH mandates and guidelines, as well as FCPH restrictions.The pool will remain closed until approval of license/permits issued by FCPH.
• Remaining closed at the Community Center: childcare (Sprout’s wait room); locker rooms; playground; water fountains, climbing wall; adventure play; social and common areas.

The City will keep the following facilities closed under social distancing requirements as it relates to group events, programs and sports. Other programs and classes will be evaluated every two weeks. 

• Everal Barn
• Playgrounds
• Basketball courts
• Thomas Knox Hockey Rink
• Hanby Park Splash Pad
• Senior Center
• Park Shelters
• Water Fountains
• Sports Fields (contact sports)

Lastly, these programs/events cannot comply with the social distancing guidelines and requirements, so they are canceled for the 2020 season.

• Summer Day Camps
• Summer Adult Sports (Softball)
• HPAC Swim Lessons
• Sounds of Summer Concert Series
• Lunch Box Music Series
• Summer Theater
• Westerville Jazz Series

Future announcements and schedules will be announced on the City website: www.westerville.org. 





#   #   #

The City of Westerville is committed to providing updates related to COVID-19 management. The City website is always the most up-to-date source of information locally. Scroll below and use the accordion buttons for more information

Thursday, May 14

The Governor’s Office and Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced the following dates for re-opening.

Many of these dates have a local impact. These dates mean the state of Ohio will ALLOW these facilities or programs to re-open or resume.

The City of Westerville has been planning its response, and will assess plans and re-open protocols established by the state of Ohio now that dates have been announced.

This DOES NOT mean the City will re-open its facilities/programs concurrent with the State of Ohio's prescribed dates. State guidelines are not yet available and must be reviewed by City staff prior to announcing a local re-opening schedule. This process will require facility preparation, staffing arrangements, and potentially the procurement of specialized equipment to meet prescribed operating guidelines by the state of Ohio.

The City of Westerville will announce its reopening plans for day camps, pools, sports fields and the Westerville Community Center by the end of next week (week of May 18).

Public health experts want us to continue social distancing and wearing masks in public to reduce risks of contagion. Please comply with ODH orders for the safety of the entire community. Click HERE for details.

• NEW: On May 31, child care providers/organizations may re-open.
  • Restrictions and new safety protocols will be in place. Check ODH guidelines for details.
• NEW: On May 31, the state will allow day camps to re-open. 
  • THE STATE ANNOUNCED IT WILL RELEASE NEW SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR DAY CAMPS ON FRIDAY, MAY 15.
  • WESTERVILLE WILL REVIEW THESE PROTOCOLS AND PUBLISH ITS SCHEDULE BY THE END OF NEXT WEEK.
• NEW: On May 26, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles will re-open.
  • Use of online services is preferred. The website is HERE.  
• NEW: On May 21, campgrounds may re-open.
• NEW: On May 26, the state will allow gyms, health and fitness facilities, recreation centers, etc. to re-open.
  • WESTERVILLE WILL REVIEW GUIDELINES ONCE AVAILABLE AND PUBLISH ITS OPENING SCHEDULE BY THE END OF NEXT WEEK.
• NEW: On May 26, limited/non-contact sports leagues may resume. Guidelines for contact sports and leagues will be announced later.
  • WESTERVILLE WILL REVIEW GUIDELINES ONCE AVAILABLE AND PUBLISH ITS OPENING SCHEDULE BY THE END OF NEXT WEEK.
• NEW: On May 26, the state will allow public pools regulated by local health departments to re-open. 
  • Water parks and amusement parks are not included.
  • WESTERVILLE WILL REVIEW GUIDELINES ONCE AVAILABLE AND PUBLISH ITS POOL OPENING SCHEDULE BY THE END OF NEXT WEEK.

The City of Westerville is committed to providing updates related to COVID-19 management. The City website is always the most up-to-date source of information locally. Scroll below and use the accordion buttons for more information.

• NEW: On May 1, any elective health care procedure may be reinstated if it does not require an overnight stay at the hospital. Dental and veterinary services may also resume on May 1.
• NEW: On May 4, any manufacturing, distribution and construction may resume. The state’s guidelines for return-to-work protocols are listed HERE.
• NEW: On May 4, general offices may re-open. The state is seeking cooperation from organizations that can continue to allow work-from-home. 
• NEW: On May 12, retail operations may re-open, with BOTH employees and customers wearing facial coverings (e.g., face masks). This does NOT include daycares, restaurants and salons. Click HERE for more information.
• NEW: Large gatherings (more than 10 people) remain prohibited

• REMINDER: Get COVID-19-related information and closures on the City website. 
• The filing deadline for municipal income tax returns has been moved from April 15 to July 15, including any payments for taxes due from your 2019 return. 
• Parks, courts, sports fields and other facilities remain closed.
• REMINDER: Share your story of quarantine experience. Email pictures, drawings, etc. to communityaffairs@westerville.org.

• Click HERE for City facility and service availability.

Thursday, April 9

Dr. Amy Acton, Director of the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), and Gov. Mike DeWine have extended the Order to stay home unless you work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity through May 1. Read the amended Order

The City of Westerville is committed to providing routine updates related to COVID-19 management. The City website is always the most up-to-date source of information locally. Scroll below and use the accordion buttons for more information.

Public health experts tell us social distancing and staying home is more important than ever to flatten the curve. Please comply with Governor DeWine’s order to stay home unless you work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity. Click HERE for details. 

Westerville, we need your help.

We’re all in this together, and the situation changes daily. To help keep all of us safe and reduce risks of exposure, Westerville Parks & Recreation and the Westerville Division of Police (WPD) are closing courts, the dog park, skate park and enforcing existing playground closures. 

Please help us by complying with these closures. Let’s keep WPD officers on emergency responses and routine patrols rather than writing citations for trespassing on park equipment while closed.

This is a challenge for everyone. Help us by walking, biking or hiking instead. Walk around your neighborhood or volunteer to walk a neighbor’s dog. Now is the time to think of others and support our community while we wait for this pandemic to pass.

Wednesday, March 25

• Parks & Recreation has announced cancellations or schedule adjustments. The website is the most up-to-date source for program availability.
  • All programming for the month of April is canceled, including the Spring Eggstravaganza and Bunny Hop 5K.
  • Event cancellations for May include Party at the Creek, Wilderness Safety Training and Kids to Parks Day.
  • Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr. will move to next year.
• Hydrant flushing is postponed for spring, and will begin later this summer.
• Westerville Public Service is reminding residents to avoid flushing wipes. Most products advertised as “flushable” do not dissolve and can cause costly damage to both private and public property.

Monday, March 23 

• As a reminder, playgrounds in parks are closed. Courts and fields remain open at this time, but are limited to small group and individual use.
• Westerville Division of Police (WPD) hours for Records are shifting to Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Westerville Citizen’s Academy is canceled. If you were interested in applying, please email communityaffairs@westerville.org for more information.

Friday, March 20

• The federal government announced moving Tax Day from April 15 to July 15, 2020. Westerville income tax returns and payments for 2019 are due Wednesday, July 15. 
• The City of Westerville has published more information about the utility bill holiday HERE.

Thursday, March 19

• Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is temporarily suspending fare collection and requesting riders limit non-essential bus travel. Please consult the COTA website for further information and details.
• Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security is reporting a critical need for N95 surgical mask donations for healthcare providers. Donations are accepted at their facility at 5300 Strawberry Farms Blvd. Before you donate, please visit their website and review requirements.
  • Residents can text “COVID19FC” to 888-777 to receive coronavirus information on their mobile device.
• The Westerville Division of Police Records Bureau is now accepting crime and incident report requests online at www.westerville.org/crimereportrequest. This new portal is accessible from a desktop or mobile browser. 
• The weekly 12 p.m. (noon) test each Wednesday of the emergency siren system has been suspended until further notice. The statewide tornado drill scheduled for next week has been canceled.

• Westerville City Council will meet tonight as scheduled, but limited public attendance is encouraged. The meeting airs live on WestervilleTV and can also be accessed on the website HERE.
• For your safety, Parks & Recreation is closing shelters and public bathrooms in parks.
• Westerville City Hall will close to the public at 11 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, March 18. Westerville Mayor’s Court is canceled until April 22.
  • Call (614) 901-6400 for questions or information about City programs or services.
  • Call (614) 901-6419 for questions or information about Mayor’s Court or click HERE.

• Westerville Mayor’s Court is canceled for Wednesday, March 18. Mayor’s Court will remain closed until April 22, 2020. Contact clerkofcourt@westerville.org for information. 
• The City of Westerville will suspend all utility account disconnections this month. Email askutilitybilling@westerville.org for more information
• Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security is managing a text-alert system for emergency updates. Text COVID19FC to 888-777 to subscribe.

The City of Westerville anticipates and is experiencing daily updates and changes related to decision making and service adjustments for COVID-19 management.

On Friday, March 13, the City of Westerville declared the following:

• The Westerville Community Center and Senior Center closes after 5 p.m. today.
  • Reopening is tentatively scheduled for April 5, but subject to further adjustment if deemed necessary.
• All Parks & Recreation programs are canceled until further notice.
• Transportation provided by the Westerville Senior Center is suspended until further notice.
• The Westerville Divisions of Police and Fire (WPD and WFD) will not accept food deliveries.
  • Offices at the Service Complex, Westerville Electric Division, Water Plant and Parks Maintenance building are closed to the general public.
  • Appointments may be made for in-person service if applicable.
• Limited public access will be allowed at City facilities until further notice.
  • No public access to 64 E. Walnut for Utility Bill services, Income Tax and Planning & Development permits or customer service.
  • Special extended hours for income tax preparation are canceled.
  • Please note that appointments for in-person service are NOT available. If you need immediate attention, please call (614) 901-6420.
• WPD and Records Bureau hours of operation and public access remain unchanged. The lobby is open.
• Mayor's Court will proceed as scheduled. 
• Public meetings including Westerville City Council and Board and Commission meetings will continue to meet to conduct business with modifications:
• All scheduled meetings at City facilities involving the general public on non-City personnel are suspended and will be replaced with conference calls.
• The City Manager is implementing a work-from-home policy for applicable staff. Public safety personnel, department heads and administrators and support staff in key functions will work their regular schedules from their City offices.

PLEASE NOTE: These precautions are in place to minimize public contact for residents/visitors and staff as recommended by public health experts.

• As previously announced, the following public safety adjustments are in place:
• The Westerville Division of Police (WPD) will be evaluating and potentially limiting in-person non-emergency responses. Reports that can be taken by phone will be. Emergency responses continue as normal.
• The Westerville Division of Fire (WFD) is suspending commercial fire inspections, firehouse tours, CART activities, school talks, student ride-alongs and internships, public education and outreach activities, and non-WFD meetings hosted at Station 111.
• WPD Citizen Police Academy classes are postponed until further notice.
• Westerville Emergency dispatchers will ask screening questions to any 9-1-1 callers for emergency medical services.
• Westerville first responders have personal protective equipment (PPE) for use in emergency medical responses as needed.