City Hall offering limited access

Staff Report

Access inside City Hall to the general public has been prohibited until at least April 10 due to the threat of COVID-19. Personnel will still be available to handle business over the phone during normal operating hours, Monday - Friday from 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

"I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause," mayor Johnny Hammock posted in a letter. "Due to the current issues with the coronavirus, our concern is protecting every citizen of Tallassee and the surrounding areas from the spread of COVID-19."

Hammock said he was heckled when seen walking in a convenience store wearing a mask.

"I didn't know the gentleman. I told him there are only so many of us in the utility department that know how to treat water and work on gas lines. You don't want us getting sick. I've got a limited number of N95 masks. Our fire department, police department and utility guys have them. I've asked utility workers to please wear them when they go into public places. If you see our city workers don't heckle them."

The satellite offices for Tallapoosa and Elmore Counties will also be closed during the period for driver's license and tag renewals.

Tallapoosa County probate judge Talmadge East issued a release regarding the closing in Tallassee.

"I spoke with mayor Hammock and in compliance with this closing we will not be sending staff to our Tallassee satellite office on Mondays until the City Hall is reopened. The Dadeville and Alex City Probate offices are now closed to the public. In addition, the DMV Commissioner of Revenue in Montgomery has extended the deadline for March tag renewals to April 15. If March renewals are received by our office by April 15, 2020 there will be no late fee assessed."

Utility payments in Tallassee may be made via the city's website: www.tallasseeal.gov. Inquiries may be directed to Stephanie Hornsby at 334-283-4298 or shornsby@tallasse-al.gov.

The Building Department is handling all correspondence on building licenses and permits at 334-283-6571.

Tallassee Municipal Court is suspended for March 20, April 3 and April 10. Those scheduled to appear on those dates will receive notification of rescheduled dates. For court payments or questions, contact the magistrate at 334-283-5425.

"We need to come together as a city," Hammock said. "I'm trying to make the right decisions for Tallassee. We are a check to check city. We have a lot of hurdles. I'm really concerned about the sales tax revenue. We'll keep an eye on that. I want to keep all the city workers working."