City Offices: Open for Business, But Closed to Public Access Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
The City of Corvallis, in collaboration with Benton County, Linn County, City of Albany, City of Monroe, City of Adair, City of Philomath, Corvallis School District 509J, and Oregon State University, will be adjusting services at most facilities, offices, and sites to reduce public access, effective March 18. Most of these sites will continue to be fully staffed, and many services are available online or over the phone. The adjustments are being undertaken in accordance with guidelines from public health authorities to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus, which causes the COVID-19 respiratory illness.
In the City of Corvallis, walk-in public access will be eliminated at the following locations:
- City Hall – Main Lobby
- City Hall – Planning Counter and Development Services Counter
- Finance Department Billing Office (Payments can be delivered to a drop box outside the building)
- Corvallis Municipal Court (Payments can be delivered to a drop box outside of the building, and court dates can be rescheduled by phone at 541-766-6948)
- Corvallis Police Department – Main Lobby (Emergency services will still be available for crime victims)
- Corvallis Fire Station 1 – Main Lobby
- Public Works Administrative Office – Front Desk Customer Service Area
- Parks and Recreation Avery Administrative Office – Main Lobby Customer Service Area
Previously, the City announced the closure of the Library, Osborn Aquatic Center, and Majestic Theatre, along with all of the programming and events at those facilities, through the end of March, and the cancellation of all non-essential City meetings and events.
These closures and cancellations, while inconvenient, are intended to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Reducing public access promotes social distancing and allows City staff to continue working. Many City services, including Parks and Recreation sign-ups, bill payments, and building permits, can be accessed online at www.corvallisoregon.gov.
The City may announce additional steps in the coming days to bolster mitigation efforts. The City of Corvallis is working closely with Benton County to focus local resources on the coronavirus pandemic.
