Town of Townsend to Return to Open Public Meetings On-Site
The Town of Townsend is returning to open public meetings on-site. In addition, residents or Council who may need to attend virtually may do so with Town Hall serving as an Anchor Site for those that wish to attend in person.
The Town Council room has been set up to meet social distancing requirement as prescribed by the CDC and masks must be worn by all participants and witnesses present while in Town Hall. Due to the above requirements, space will be limited. These precautions are necessary as it will not be possible to determine who has been fully vaccinated.
Anyone who feels ill or who has been near to someone who has been exposed to or tested positive for the Coronavirus should not attend the meeting in person. If you have tested positive for the Coronavirus you may not attend the meeting in person until you have been tested negative.
Meeting access information along with relevant meeting documents for those wishing to attend the meeting electronically, will be posted to the Town website under the meeting information.
8/11/2021 Planning Commission Meeting- To Be Held In Person & Electronically
Arrangements have been made to hold the Planning Commission meeting for tonight, 8/11/2021 both in person and electronically. Residents may choose to attend meetings in person or via electronic means. All personnel and visitors entering Town Hall must wear masks and comply with all CDC guidelines, including social distancing guidelines. Those that are sick or who have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus are asked to not enter Town Hall and may attend the meeting virtually. Those wishing to attend virtually may dial 1(301)715-8592. When directed, provide following meeting ID ID 407 702 6733# and then the following password 361631# to enter the meeting. If you choose to access the meeting online click the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4077026733?pwd=TjJ6NmhzMHdOT1dDa3h0Ty8wY0pUQT09
Residents will be able to view documents posted to the meeting tab on the Town website at www.townsend.delaware.gov or by joining the meeting via computer.
COVID-19 Vaccine Information
The State of Delaware is working with pharmacies, medical providers, hospital systems, employers, and organizations to distribute COVID-19 vaccines.
Visit https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/vaccine/ or contact the vaccine call center at 833-643-1715 to learn more about the vaccines available to you.
Find a vaccination site here: https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/vaccine/where-can-i-get-my-vaccine/
Delaware COVID-19 Testing Sites
There are permanent and temporary COVID-19 testing sites throughout Delaware.
Find a testing site at this link: https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/testing-events/?Filter=0&StartDate=2021-08-10&CurrentDate=2021-08-10&ContentProvider=0
Who should get tested?
While everyone can get tested (whether you have symptoms or not) not everyone needs to. However, if you meet any of these criteria you definitely should. Under these criteria, you should also self-quarantine/isolate at home as you wait for your results, and follow the advice of your health care provider or public health professional.
- People who have symptoms of COVID-19, including those who are fully vaccinated.
- DPH recommends that unvaccinated people get tested once a week
- Unvaccinated people should get tested 5-7 days after being exposed to someone with COVID.
- Unvaccinated people should isolate at home immediately if they develop symptoms of COVID-19, and quarantine at home if exposed to someone with COVID-19.
- People who have asked or referred to get testing by their health care provider. Learn More
- People in certain higher-risk jobs (health care, first responder, corrections, long-term care) are recommended to get tested on a regular schedule.
- Fully vaccinated people should get tested 3-5 days after being exposed to someone with COVID-19.
- Fully vaccinated people do not need to quarantine after exposure. They do need to wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days, according to the CDC.
Townsend Continued Response to Coronavirus
Townsend Continued Response to Coronavirus
August 6, 2021
On July 13, 2021, Governor Carney lifted the State of Emergency related to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The same day the Governor also signed Public Health Emergency Order to allow the State of Delaware and medical providers to continue COVID-19 vaccination and testing programs. The Order authorizes the Division of Public Health (DPH) to direct COVID-19 vaccination, treatment and mitigation measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Rising Concern
The Number of new cases in the Townsend area have generally remained low leading to the Governor lifting the State of Emergency. However, the threat to our community has significantly risen over the past two weeks. Townsend area is identified as an area of concern as cases of the Coronavirus have significantly increased. Information specific to our area can be found at https://myhealthycommunity.dhss.delaware.gov/locations/zip-code-19734.
The average of daily new cases went from .7 cases 14-days ago to 2.4 new cases daily. On July 8th the average daily number of new cases was reported as .3 cases, with only 3 new cases that week. By comparison, we are now an average of 2.7 new cases daily. There have been approximately 16 new cases from July 30, 2021, through August 4, 2021, in our zip code, and the number of daily cases is on the rise.
Also there has been a rise in the rate of people testing positive 9.1% positivity rate two weeks ago to over 27.3% positivity on average. This is quite a shift from July 8 when the positivity average was 4.8%.
Delaware Public Health is reporting that from January 1, 2021, through mid-July, 99% of reported cases statewide are individuals who are not fully vaccinated. This includes more than 99% of those hospitalized with COVID-19 and just under 99% of fatalities from this disease.
Unfortunately, Our area has suffered the loss of 14 residents from this disease. Our hearts go out to the families of those that have passed.
Recommendations
Get Vaccinated
According to State and Federal Public Health officials, the best way to mitigate the harm from this disease and reduce the risk from this Pandemic, keep schools and businesses open and accessible and rebuild is to get vaccinated. Less than 55% of the Townsend Area residents have ben vaccinated. Vaccines are effective against hospitalization and death. The majority of all COVID-19 infections happen in unvaccinated individuals. Unvaccinated persons are at greater risk for serious illness.
Additional information can be found at www.de.gov/covidvaccine.
Testing
Unvaccinated persons are urged to get tested weekly. Anyone who is exposed to someone with COVID-19 get tested five to seven days after exposure.
Specific guidance and for a list of testing locations go to www.de.gov/gettested.
Face Coverings
Delaware has adopted CDC Guidelines. CDC is highly recommending the use of masks indoors in public spaces by both vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals. This is highly recommended in areas where the is substantial transmission. New Castle County is in this category. Townsend area is listed as an area of concern. Town Staff have been advised to wear face coverings in the office, particularly when interacting with residents and those doing business with the Town.
Town Hall Operations
Town Hall is open to serve our community. Appointments are encouraging. Our team remains committed to serving the needs of the Town. Please continue to monitor the Town’s website for any updates.
At this time, all scheduled Town Council, board, and commission meetings will be held via conference call and online via Zoom meeting. Residents will be able to view documents posted to the meeting tab on the Town website at www.townsend.delaware.gov. Those wishing to attend may dial the number provided on the agenda or may connect online with the meeting link provided. Please check the Town’s website and agenda for access information for each meeting. We are working to secure the resources to safely hold meetings at Town Hall.
It is important to understand that these measures have been set to assist with managing the potential spread of COVID-19 within our community and our region. We continue to monitor the situation and have participated in briefings to understand how the declaration may impact our community as we progress through the Governor’s phased reopening plan.
Individuals with minimal to no symptoms may be carriers of the COVID-19 virus and may unknowingly spread the virus to other individuals in close proximity. The Town Council and staff continue to work with the State and New Castle County Officials to address the needs of our community while continuing to take actions to help control further spread of the COVID-19 in the area.
Town Park
The Townsend Town Park equipment and grounds on Edgar Road are open for use. However, Town Park is not staffed with Town employees on a regular basis. All individuals choosing to use the Park are reminded to follow Public Health Guidelines for safety.
Unvaccinated visitors are asked to consider wearing a mask in crowded outdoor settings and for activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated. Visitors to the park are advised to use social distancing protocols while using the park. Information on social distancing practices can be found at https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/what-delawareans-can-do/.
Remember to wash your hands regularly, cover your cough and stay home if you are sick. It is especially important for at-risk populations, specifically the elderly, to avoid large gatherings.
Youth Sports
The leadership of any youth sports team wishing to use Town Park fields must first contact Town Manager to discuss a plan for how the organization/team will comply with State Public Health directives. Each team will be required to sign a document before being allowed to use the fields.
If you have questions about COVID-19 or exposure risk you can call the Division of Public Health’s Coronavirus Call Center at 1-866-408-1899 or TTY at 1-800-232-5460 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or email DPHCall@delaware.gov. For the latest on Delaware’s response, visit de.gov/coronavirus.
Mayor and Council
Town of Townsend
V-5-ASM
CLOSED: Job Opening- Full- Time Public Works Supervisor
The Town of Townsend is accepting applications for a full-time Public Works Supervisor to plan, organize, and direct public works and maintenance activities. Individual must be able to operate equipment, do physical labor, and communicate to the public in a professional manner. A drug test, background check, and a valid driver’s license are required. Individual should have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. If interested, forward resume, cover letter, and Townsend General Employment Application to Town Hall; Attention Anthony S. Mangeri, Town Manager or email to amangeri@townsend.delaware.gov
Townsend General Employment Application (002)
Summer Bookmobile- Wednesday, July 21 4:00-4:30 pm- Townsend Village Park
| ASD’S BOOKMOBILE WILL BE ON THE ROAD WEDNESDAY – JOIN US FOR FREE BOOKS & REFRESHMENTS!
A summer ritual – the Appoquinimink Bookmobile – will be making stops at 4 locations tomorrow. We’ll be giving away FREE books and treats. School librarians are there to make suggestions and help you find new titles to expand your collection at home. There are loads of options to choose from. Bring your parents and siblings – we’ve got books for all ages! Open this story for a list of locations and times.
*Masks are required and we will follow social distancing guidelines to keep everyone safe. |
| Mission: The mission of the Appoquinimink School District is to provide a world-class education where each of our students gains the knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes needed to contribute and flourish in a global society. |
Application Period Now Open for LIHEAP Grants to Help Customers Pay Energy Bills
Millions of Dollars Available As New Round of Energy Assistance Opens for Delmarva Power Customers
Application period now open for LIHEAP grants to help customers pay energy bills
NEWARK, Del. (July 15, 2021) – Delmarva Power customers facing challenges paying their energy bills can take advantage of the millions of dollars now available as the annual Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) opened July 1. Eligible customers in Delaware and Maryland may receive more than $1,000 in grant support through LIHEAP toward their energy bill by applying for assistance in their state. Any customer who may be behind on their energy bill should review the program eligibility requirements, as customers who previously did not qualify for support, may now take advantage of these funds.
“We are committed to helping all our customers meet their energy needs and manage their bills,” said Gary Stockbridge, Delmarva Power region president. “As our country continues reopening, we know some of our customers are still facing challenges. We want our customers to know that there are assistance options available and we are ready to help all customers review their payment options and support them in managing their energy needs.”
LIHEAP grant eligibility differs by state and is based on a customer’s annual household income and size. To be eligible for LIHEAP, a customer’s annual household income cannot exceed 175 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines in Maryland or 200 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines in Delaware. Homeowners, renters, roomers and subsidized housing tenants may be eligible. Customers do not have to be behind on their bills to receive a grant.
To meet eligibility requirements in Maryland, household income must be under the following thresholds:
For households with no members 67 years of age or older at the time of application.
• $22,536 – One-person household
• $30,480 – Two-person household
• $38,436 – Three-person household
• $46,380 – Four-person household
For households with one or more members 67 years of age or older at the time of application.
• $25,764 – One-person household
• $34,836 – Two-person household
• $43,920 – Three-person household
• $53,652 – Four-person household
To meet eligibility requirements in Delaware, household income must be under the following thresholds:
• $25,536 – One-person household
• $34,488 – Two-person household
• $43,440 – Three-person household
• $52,416 – Four-person household
In Maryland, customers can apply for LIHEAP energy assistance through the Department of Human Services website, by visiting a Local Administering Agency, or by calling the Office of Home Energy Programs at 800-332-6347. In Delaware, customers can apply for LIHEAP energy assistance by visiting the Department of Health and Services website or by calling 302-654-9295 in New Castle County, 302-674-1782 in Kent County, or 302-856-6310 in Sussex County.
Delmarva Power Customer Care will work with customers who may have difficulty paying their energy bill. The company offers payment options, like Budget Billing, which averages payments over a 12-month period to help customers manage their monthly energy bill, or flexible payment arrangements that offer individually tailored payment installment plans. Contact Delmarva Power at 800-375-7117 to review payment options.
Other programs supporting Delaware and Maryland customers include:
• The Good Neighbor Energy Fund – Delmarva Power works with the Salvation Army and other local organizations to offer energy assistance to Delaware and Maryland low-income customers. The fund allows for customers to pay exactly $1 over their monthly Delmarva Power bill, which goes to the associated non-profit organization in their community. Delmarva Power matches contributions with $1 for every $3 that is collected, up to $70,000.
Other programs supporting Maryland customers include:
• The Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) – Helps eligible customers pay for a portion of their current electric bill. Some EUSP participants may qualify for assistance with past-due electric bills as well as referrals to energy efficiency programs.
• The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) – Designed to help low-income families during the winter season. Information for both programs can be found by visiting the Office of Home Energy Programs website.
To learn more about Delmarva Power, visit The Source, Delmarva Power’s online news room. Find additional information by visiting delmarva.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/delmarvapower and on Twitter at twitter.com/delmarvaconnect. Delmarva Power’s mobile app is available at delmarva.com/mobileapp.
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Delmarva Power is a unit of Exelon Corporation (Nasdaq: EXC), the nation’s leading energy provider, with approximately 10 million customers. Delmarva Power provides safe and reliable energy service to approximately 532,000 electric customers in Delaware and Maryland and approximately 136,000 natural gas customers in northern Delaware
Town of Townsend Tennis/ Pickleball Court Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony- Flyer
You’re invited
To the Town of Townsend Tennis & Pickleball Court
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Wednesday, July 21, 2021
9 a.m
Townsend Municipal Park- Tennis & Pickle Ball court
0 Edgar Rd.
Townsend, DE
Special Thanks to DNREC and New Castle County
Brief Remarks and the First Pickleball Match will be held between Mayor Miller and County Executive Meyer
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High Quality Preschool Opportunity
High Quality Preschool Opportunity
If you are looking for preschool for your four-year old and would benefit from tuition support, please contact Dr. Kim Brancato, Principal of the Appoquinimink Preschool Program at kimberly.brancato@appo.k12.de.us.
- Four year old programs at
- Appoquinimink Preschool Center AND
- Brick Mill Early Childhood Center
- Hours: 9:30-3:40
- If eligible for tuition support, breakfast, lunch and transportation included.
