A Message from the Interim City Manager & Mayor

   

Dear Clermont Community,

We hope that you and your loved ones are staying safe and healthy. This is a challenging time for families, employees and businesses in Clermont and around the world. The coronavirus (COVID-19) has brought unprecedented changes and interruptions to all of our daily lives. Every day brings uncertainty as we face the unknown and find our "new normal."

But here's what we do know: The Clermont community is strong. We are Champions of resilience, kindness and hope. And together, we can be Champions of slowing the spread of this terrible virus.

We hope you'll find this webpage helpful as we share updates, FAQs, resources and news releases in one central location. We've also embedded our Facebook page below so those who don't have an account can see what we're posting and sharing.

Please stay connected with us. Email us at info@clermontfl.org or call 352-394-4081. We are open for business and continue to provide exceptional service to the Clermont community, albeit in new ways.

Thank you and stay healthy,

Interim City Manager Susan Dauderis & Mayor Tim Murry

Read the Interim City Manager's Note on COVID-19 One Year Later

Click here for vaccine information.

Learn about Rise Clermont supporting economic recovery.

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Latest Updates

Here's a timeline of the latest actions and announcements effecting the City of Clermont regarding COVID-19. For the latest updates on local vaccine information, please click here to be directed to the city's designated COVID-19 vaccine page.

• Aug. 16: At the direction of Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) has implemented state-supported monoclonal antibody therapy treatment centers for COVID-19 patients. Learn more here. 
• July 27: The CDC announced updated guidelines on mask wearing for fully vaccinated people in light of the highly contagious Delta variant, slowing vaccinations and rising cases.  
• June 18: OUR Florida is Florida's federally funded emergency assistance relief program for residents and businesses to pay utilities and rent. Apply at www.ourflorida.com. 
• May 3: Gov. Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 21-101, effective July 1, 2021, Invalidating All Remaining Local Emergency Orders Based on the COVID-19 Emergency. View a PDF version here. 
• April 27: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new COVID-19 guidelines for fully vaccinated people. Learn more here. 
• April 20: Businesses in the greater South Lake area are invited to schedule first and second vaccinations at their facilities through the Clermont Fire Department. Learn more here. 
• April 16: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released instructions for receiving COVID-19 funeral assistance. Learn more here. 
• April 9: Lake County Government extended the deadline to apply for rental assistance through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. Read more here. 
• April 2: Gov. Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 21-81, Prohibiting COVID-19 Vaccine Passports. Read it here. 
• March 25: Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that all Floridians age 40 and older will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine starting Mon., March 29. All Floridians age 18 and older will be eligible beginning the following Mon., April 5.
• March 19: Gov. DeSantis' Executive Order 21-67 will be effectve Mon., March 22 regarding who qualifies for vaccines. Those qualified now include people age 50 and up.
• March 8: The CDC released updated information regarding suggested safety guidelines for those who are vaccinated. Read more here.
• March 8: Gov. DeSantis' Executive Order 21-62  will be effective Mon., March 15 regarding who qualifies for vaccines. Those qualified now include people age 60 and up.
• March 4: Gov. DeSantis' Executive Order 21-47 went into effect beginning March 3 regarding who qualifies for vaccines. Those qualified now include long-term care facility residents and staff, people age 65 and up, healthcare personnel with direct patient contact, K-12 school employees age 50 and up, sworn law enforcement officers age 50 and up; firefighters age 50 and up; and those whom physicians and hospital providers deem to be extremely vulnerable to COVid-19. Advanced practice registered nurses may vaccinate people determined by a physician to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. 
• March 2: Lake County Schools announced the COVID-19 vaccine to be offered to Lake County Schools employees 50 years of age and older. Learn more here.
• Feb. 19: Lake County Government to accept Emergency Rental Assistance Program applications beginning 2 p.m. Mon., Feb. 22. Learn more here. 

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FAQs

Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

How many COVID-19 cases are in Clermont?

Where can I get tested for COVID-19?

Does the city have any resources to help local business and the community?

What is the governor's plan to reopen Florida?

Are restaurants and bars open?

Are barber shops, hair salons and nail salons open?

Are gyms open?

Who should wear a face mask?

What does the governor's stay-at-home order mean?

Are city parks open?

What about the boat ramp?

How can I pay my utility bill?

Is there a list of events that were canceled?

Can I still apply for a permit?

Can I still apply for a Business Tax Receipt?

Is the city still doing inspections?

How do I get a refund for a city event, show or program that I paid for?

Will my trash continue to be picked up?

Is my water safe to drink and use?

Where can I get help?

Don't see your question answered here? Call our main line at 352-394-4081 (8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday) or email info@clermontfl.org.

Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

For the latest updates on local vaccine information, please click here to be directed to the city's designated COVID-19 vaccine page. For questions about the DOH-Lake's vaccine distribution, their hotline is available 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sat. at 352-268-9299 and their email address is COVID-19@flhealth.gov; you can also visit their website at www.lake.floridahealth.gov and view their Twitter for frequent updates about availibity at https://twitter.com/FLHealthLake. Lake County Government launched a website for scheduling vaccines at https://scheduling.lakecountyfl.gov. Lake County announces appointment availability on their website at www.lakecountyfl.gov/COVID-19. You can also be notified when appointments become available by texting COVIDUPDATE to 888777 to activate alerts to your phone. Businesses in the greater South Lake area are invited to schedule first and second vaccinations at their facilities through the Clermont Fire Department, learn more here. 

Who can get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Everyone ages 12 and older is encouraged to get vaccinated, according to the CDC. The federal government is providing free vaccinations to all people living in the U.S. For the latest updates on local vaccine information, please click here to be directed to the city's designated COVID-19 vaccine page. 

How many coronavirus (COVID-19) cases are in Clermont?

A: The state no longer reports daily case numbers. They now report weekly case data at https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/.

Where can I get tested for COVID-19?

A: Click here for Lake County's latest testing center updates, including a testing locator tool. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and want to get tested, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests calling your state or local health department or a medical provider. The Florida Department of Health's Lake County Citizen Information Hotline is at 352-742-4830, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays; the state hotline is at 1-866-779-6121, or you can email your questions to COVID-19@flhealth.gov. Click here for more information from the CDC on testing. 

Does the city have any resources to help local businesses and the community?

A: The City of Clermont launched Rise Clermont as a city-led business and community initiative. The city invites businesses, nonprofit organizations and residents to help accelerate the city's economic revocery by joining this collaborative movement, which had a soft rollout in December 2020. Sign up today at www.RiseClermont.com. 

What is the governor's plan to reopen Florida?

A: Gov. Ron DeSantis issued the following executive order on April 29 regarding his plan to reopen Florida, which went into effect 12:01 a.m. May 4. Executive Order 20-112: Phase 1: Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida's Recovery: https://bit.ly/3d3V9b6. FAQs about Phase 1: https://bit.ly/3c3C0WN. Presentation on Phase 1: https://bit.ly/2ydBSoN.

Then, on May 15, the governor announced that Florida will enter the "Full Phase 1" starting Mon., May 18. Watch the press conference video at https://bit.ly/3fYMuJp. View the PowerPoint presentation at https://bit.ly/3fLyP8a. Details of the "Full Phase 1" start on Slide 22. Highlights included:

• Gyms and fitness centers can reopen, emphasizing social distancing and sanitizing after use of machines (outdoor workouts are a lower-risk environment)
• Restaurants, retail shops, museums and libraries can operate at up to 50% capacity indoors
• Theme parks can submit reopening plans to the state for review (including safety plans and an endorsement from the county mayor)
• Indoor movie theaters and bars will not yet reopen (drive-in movie showings are encouraged)
• Professional athletes can train and use sports venues to compete
• All staff at long-term care facilities will be tested

On June 3, the governor announced that Florida will enter into Phase 2 of reopening at 12:01 a.m. Fri., June 5. Executive Order 20-139: https://bit.ly/3dqWHfP. PowerPoint of Phase 2 details: https://bit.ly/3gKIcpj. Highlights included:

• Bars and pubs may operate at 50% capacity.
• Retail may operate at full capacity.
• Gyms may operate at full capacity.
• Entertainment businesses may operate at 50 percent capacity.
• Personal services businesses may operate.
• All are encouraged with social distancing and sanitizing measures.
• All people in Florida are encouraged to avoid congregating in groups larger than 50.

Then, on June 26, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation announced that they were suspending on-premises consumption of alcohol at bars statewide, effective immediately. On Sept. 10, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation announced that they were allowing on-premises consumption of alcohol at bars again statewide, effective Mon., Sept. 14. 

Then, on Sept. 25, Governor Ron DeSantis announced at a press conference that Florida would enter into Phase 3 of reopening effective immediately. Read the Governor's plan for reopening here. Highlights include:

• Vulnerable individuals can resume public interactions with social distancing to minimize exposure in social settings.
• Non-essential travel may continue.
• Bars and pubs may operate at full capacity.
• Restaurants may operate at full capacity.
• Gyms may operate at full capacity.
• Retail businesses may operate at full capacity. 
• Parks, beaches and large venues may operate at full capacity.

 

Are restaurants and bars open?

A: Yes. Bars, pubs and restaurants are open at full capacity as permitted by Phase 3 of the governor's reopening plan found here. On Sept. 10, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation announced that they were allowing on-premises consumption of alcohol at bars again statewide, effective Mon., Sept. 14. 

Are barber shops, hair salons and nail salons open?

A: Yes. Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order on May 9 allowing the reopening of barbershops, hair salons and nail salons starting May 11. Read the executive order here. Businesses can find guidance here. Answers to frequently asked questions regarding their reopening are here. 

Are gyms open?

A: Yes. Gyms were allowed to reopen starting May 18 as part of the governor's Full Phase 1. Gyms and fitness centers can reopen, emphasizing social distancing and sanitizing after use of machines. The governor noted that outdoor workouts are a lower-risk environment.

Who should wear a face mask?

A: If you are age 2 or older and not fully vaccinated, the CDC recommends that you wear a mask in indoor public places. In general, you do not need to wear a mask in outdoor settings. In areas with high numbers of COVID-19 cases, consider wearing a mask in crowded outdoor settings and for activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated. Find more guidance for unvaccinated people here, and guidance for those who are vaccinated here. Recent changes announced July 27, 2021 are summarized here.

What does the governor's stay-at-home order mean?

A: On April 1, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a stay-at-home Executive Order 20-91: Essential Services and Activities During COVID-19 Emergency  effective April 3-30; he extended it to 12:01 a.m. May 4 in Executive Order 20-111: Limited Extension of Essential Services and Activities and Vacation Rental Prohibition. The order directed all Floridians to limit movements and personal interactions outside the home to only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities. Click here to see FAQs about the order. A few highlights of the order, which is no longer in effect, included:

• Restaurants and others selling food and beverage may continue takeout and delivery.
• Childcare centers may stay open. 
• Recreational activities and exercise like hiking, biking, fishing and boating are allowed, so long as social distancing guidelines are followed.
• Traveling to care for or assist a family member or friend is allowed. 
• Local authorities are allowed to adopt stricter requirements.

Are city parks open? What about the boat ramp?

A: All city parks and the boat ramp reopened May 1. All of the city's public restrooms reopened May 15.

When the city entered Phase 2 of reopening on May 5, the following additional openings were announced:

City Park Openings 

• Waterfront Park’s beach, playgrounds, basketball courts and pavilions reopen with reduced seating. 
• Playgrounds in parks reopen. 
• Basketball courts reopen. 
• Ballfields reopen with limited capacity of 50 per field; bleachers will be blocked off and spectators must bring their own seating. 
• Senior softball league resumes. 
• Parks go back to regular hours. 
• Shuffleboard courts at the Kehlor Recreation Center will reopen with reduced capacity. 
• Lake County Rowing Association will resume operations at the Clermont Boathouse with capacity restrictions and social distancing guidelines. 
• The Clermont Historic Village will resume operations with capacity restrictions and social distancing guidelines. 
• City contractual recreation programs operating in parks will resume with capacity restrictions and social distancing guidelines. 
• Champions Splash Park will reopened June 15 with reduced capacity. 

City Services and Facilities 

• Staff continue to keep services running smoothly online and by phone at 352-394-4081 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
• City Hall will open in a limited capacity: The public entrance to Utility Billing, Building Services and Planning & Development Services will be limited. All other departments and floors will be accessible by appointment only. The lobby receptionist will assist with appointments. 
• The Clermont Pool at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center reopened June 22 with reduced capacity. 

Council Meetings 

• Council meetings returned to being held in-person and will be located at the Clermont City Center, 620 W. Montrose St., to maintain social distancing.  

Other City Openings 

• Clermont Arts and Recreation Center reopened Nov. 9 with modified opening and operations.
• Clermont City Center will continue to be used for Clermont City Council meetings until the end of the year. 
• Kehlor Recreation Center and senior programs reopened Nov. 9, upon the governor’s announcing of Phase 3. 
• Special events started to be individually approved by council in Phase 3. 

How can I pay my utility bill?

A: We prefer that you pay online here. However, you also can pay in person at the Utility Billing Office on the first floor of City Hall, 685 W. Montrose St., between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please practice social distancing.

Is there a list of events that were canceled?

A: All events at city facilities have resumed. Those (private and city-run) that were canceled are indicated on our website calendar, www.ClermontFL.gov/calendar.

Can I still apply for a permit?

A: Yes. We prefer that you apply online. To register to apply online, please email the following to inspection@clermontfl.org. Once you are set up, we will respond with instructions for submitting online.

• a copy of your state license
• business tax receipt
• certificates for liability and workers comp

      What if I can only submit a paper plan?

      A: We are still accepting paper plans if you are unable to apply online. You may come into the Development Services Office on the first floor of City Hall, 685 W. Montrose St. 

How do I arrange to pick up my paper permit?

      A: You will need to send a request for pickup to inspection@clermontfl.org. We respond to arrange a pick up day and time. However, you will need to pay online before you can pick up your permit, as we are not accepting in-person payment.

Can I still apply for a Business Tax Receipt?

A: Yes. Please apply for your Business Tax Receipt and then email it to businesstax@clermontfl.org. We will respond with a link for you to pay the fee.

Is the city still doing inspections?

A: All inspections, including in-home inspections, have resumed. For a time, instead of entering a residence, our staff was taking social distancing precautions and requesing photo and/or video submissions. View our past temporary home inspection changes here. 

How do I get a refund for a city event, show or program that I paid for?

A: Please contact whomever you made the purchase with and you will be taken care of (Clermont Arts and Recreation Center: 352-394-3500; Clermont Performing Arts Center: 352-394-4800; Clermont City Center: 352-708-5975.

Will my trash continue to be picked up?

A: Yes, sanitation services continue on their regular schedule for City of Clermont residents.

Is my water safe to drink and use? 

A: Yes. According to the CDC, the COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking water. Conventional water treatment methods that use filtration and disinfection, such as those in most municipal drinking water systems, should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.

Is my pool safe to use?

A: Yes. According to the CDC, proper operation, maintenance and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19. Fore more information regarding the safety of water, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/water.html. 

Where can I get help?

A: Please check our Important Resources section on this webpage (below).

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Important Resources

We continue to add to this list. Have a suggestion? Email info@clermontfl.org.

COVID-19 HEALTH INFORMATION

• Florida Department of Health: For state health information, visit www.floridahealth.gov/covid-19.
  • The Lake County Citizen Information Hotline is available for vaccine questions at 352-801-2755 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri.
  • The state hotline is available at all times at 1-866-779-6121, or you can email your questions to COVID-19@flhealth.gov.
  • For case details, including the number of cases by city, click here, scroll down and click "See the report."
  • For an interactive dashboard of cases by county, click here.
  • View the state's hospital capacity dashboard and search by county here. 
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): For U.S. health information, visit: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Visit the Coronavirus Rumor Control page at www.fema.gov/coronavirus-rumor-control.
• Agency for Healthcare Administration: View their COVID-19 alerts at https://ahca.myflorida.com/covid-19_alerts.shtml. 
• World Health Organization: For worldwide health information, visit www.who.int/covid-19.

GOVERNMENT INFORMATION

• City of Clermont: The latest city updates, FAQs, our Facebook posts and city news releases related to COVID-19 can be found on this page (www.ClermontFL.gov/coronavirus). 
  • City-specific questions can be directed to City Hall's main line at 352-394-4081, answered 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.
  • Media inquiries should be directed to the city's Public Information Office
• Lake County Government:  For county information, visit www.LakeCountyFL.gov/COVID-19 or call their Citizens Information Line at 352-253-9999, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. Lake County launched a Reopen Lake website with a public health recovery plan for residents, businesses and stakeholders at https://elevatelake.com/reopen.
• Lake County Schools: For county school information, visit www.lake.k12.fl.us or call their main line at 352-253-6500.
• Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis: For the latest updates on actions taken by the governor, visit https://www.flgov.com. To view all COVID-19 Executive Orders, visit https://www.flgov.com/covid-19-executive-orders/.
• Florida Division of Emergency Management: For the latest information, visit https://www.floridadisaster.org/.
• The White House: For federal government information, visit www.whitehouse.gov.

ASSISTANCE

For individuals:

• OUR Florida: Florida's federally funded emergency assistance relief program for residents and businesses to pay utilities and rent. Apply at www.ourflorida.com. 
• 211: For assistance finding food, paying housing bills or other essential services, or to offer help, call 211 or visit https://www.211.org/get-help/help-during-covid-19-pandemic. 
• Local Food Assistance: For help finding local food pantries, search by zipcode at www.foodpantries.org. We've also compiled a list of Clermont-area food resources here. 
• Elevate Lake Economic Development: For the latest local reemployment and business resources, visit www.elevatelake.com/COVID-19. 
• Career Source Central Florida: For career seekers and employers; providing virtual options and additional resources during COVID-19 at www.careersourcecentralflorida.com.
• Employ Florida: Search for job openings by keyword and/or zipcode at www.employflorida.com.
• Florida Department of Economic Opportunity: For reemployment assistance, visit http://www.floridajobs.org/Reemployment-Assistance-Service-Center. 
• Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida: For legal assistance, including with evictions, call 1-800-405-1417 or visit www.clsmf.org.
• National Center for Disaster Fraud: To report concerns regarding hoarding and price gouging, call their hotline at 866-720-5721. 
• Federal Emergency Management Agency: For information on federal assistance, visit www.fema.gov/coronavirus/how-to-help. For COVID-19 funeral assistance from FEMA, visit here.
• How to Donate Plasma: If you have fully recovered from COVID-19 you may be able to help patients currently fighting the infection. More information and how to donate here.
• Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES): Individuals and businesses may apply for assistance through Lake County's CARES Act page here. 
• Duke Energy: Duke Energy will resume regular business on Sept. 1. See Duke Energy's response to COVID-19 here. 

For businesses and organizations:

• Rise Clermont: To explore ways to support local businesses, help nonprofits and reconnect with other Champions in safe and fun new ways visit www.RiseClermont.com. 
• Elevate Lake Economic Development: For the latest local business and reemployment resources, visit www.elevatelake.com/COVID-19. Lake County launched a Reopen Lake website with a public health recovery plan for residents, businesses and stakeholders at https://elevatelake.com/reopen.
• Lake Support and Emergency Recovery (LASER): LASER is providing cloth face coverings to Lake County businesses in need. Email LASER at nicole@laserfl.com. They ask for a donation of one dollar per face mask to offset material expensed at laserfl.com.
• South Lake Chamber of Commerce: For small business resources and available local takeout/delivery options, visit www.southlakechamber-fl.com/south-lake-strong. Their business resources are at www.southlakechamber-fl.com/covid-19-business-resources-information. 
• Florida Division of Emergency Management:
  • Find business resources at www.floridadisaster.biz/, including the business damage assessment survey and supporting assistance for business and workforce, such as Reemployment Assistance and the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. 
  • Guidance on essential services and a waiver can be found at www.floridadisaster.org, specifically at www.floridadisaster.org/globalassets/governor-essential-services.pdf. 
• Volunteer Connect: For a virtual board to advertise volunteer opportunities, visit www.volunteerflorida.org. 
• Considerations for Restaurants and Bars: From the CDC, read here. 

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City of Clermont Facebook Page

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City News Releases

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City of Clermont Waives Permit Fees for Restaurants Adding Outdoor Seating in May

CLERMONT (May 6, 2020) – The City of Clermont is waiving permit fees for restaurants adding temporary outdoor seating during the COVID-19 pandemic in May.

“As a business-friendly city, our restaurants may add temporary outdoor seating options without having to worry about a permit fee during this challenging time,” City Manager Darren Gray said. “We encourage restaurants to follow guidelines from the governor and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to keep employees and patrons safe as they reopen for dining with limited capacity.”

Businesses interested in adding outdoor seating of any kind should submit the following information to the City of Clermont’s Building Services Department at inspection@clermontfl.org:

• Site plan showing location of outdoor seating
• Size of tent (if applicable)
• Number of parking spaces to be used for outdoor seating
• Number of tables and number of chairs

Questions may be directed to permitting staff at 352-241-7315.

Governor DeSantis’s executive order detailing Phase 1 of reopening Florida went into effect May 4. It states that restaurants may offer outdoor seating with 6 feet of space between tables and indoor seating at 25% capacity. Retail can operate at 25% of indoor capacity. Bars, gyms and personal services such as hairdressers continue to remain closed to services and may continue to sell retail products.

Vulnerable individuals (those over 65 and those with serious underlying medical conditions) should avoid close contact with people outside the home. Face masks are recommended for everyone in face-to-face interactions and where you cannot social distance.

A Phase 1 FAQs list contains helpful information (https://bit.ly/3c3C0WN). In addition, the governor’s slideshow presentation on Phase 1 provides further insight (https://bit.ly/2ydBSoN).

For more information, visit the City of Clermont’s COVID-19 webpage, www.ClermontFL.gov/coronavirus, the city’s Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/CityOfClermont and our new Nextdoor app page.

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A Message from Clermont Mayor Gail Ash:

Phase 1 of Reopening Begins

CLERMONT (May 4, 2020) – Clermont Mayor Gail Ash would like to share the following message:

Dear Clermont community,

We would like to update you regarding the reopening plans taking effect in our state, county and city.

We understand the excitement around the reopening of stores, restaurants and parks, as well as the need for our economy to begin to recover. However, we urge you to exercise caution and follow the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including practicing social distancing and wearing a cloth face covering in public. It is important that together we continue slowing the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), which has taken the lives of at least 13 Lake County residents and over 67,600 Americans.

Here is a closer look at the reopening plans for Florida, Lake County and Clermont.

Florida Begins Phase 1

Phase 1 of Gov. Ron DeSantis’s plan to reopen Florida took effect today, following the expiration of his stay-at-home order.

The governor announced his plan in his April 29 executive order (https://bit.ly/3d3V9b6). The plan to reopen Florida focuses on protecting the vulnerable, increasing testing, promoting social distancing, supporting hospitals and protecting healthcare workers, as well as preventing more cases from being introduced from outside of the state. The plan also supports eventually reaching the highest practicable level of business operation while maintaining public health and safety, so that all Floridians can return to work in a later phase and the economy can recover.

Phase 1 parameters include:

• Schools remain distance learning.
• Visits to senior living facilities are prohibited.
• Elective surgeries can resume.
• Restaurants may offer outdoor seating with 6 feet of space between tables and indoor seating at 25% capacity.
• Retail can operate at 25% of indoor capacity.
• Bars, gyms and personal services such as hairdressers continue to remain closed to services and may continue to sell retail products.

Phase 1 also gives the following cautions:

• Vulnerable individuals (those over 65 and those with serious underlying medical conditions) should avoid close contact with people outside the home.
• All individuals, when in public, should maximize physical distance from others.
• Avoid socializing in groups of more than 10 in circumstances that do not readily allow for physical distancing.
• Face masks are recommended for all those in face-to-face interactions and where you cannot social distance.

The governor stated that Phase 1 does not need to take months, and the decision to move to the next phase will be based on key health metrics and guided by medical authorities.

A Phase 1 FAQs list contains helpful information (https://bit.ly/3c3C0WN). In addition, the governor’s slideshow presentation on Phase 1 provides further insight (https://bit.ly/2ydBSoN).

The governor also announced that Florida State Parks reopened today with limited access (https://bit.ly/2WmWZNq).

Lake County Announces Additional Guidance

On May 1, Lake County government announced additional COVID-19 protocol guidance in support of the governor’s reopen Florida order (https://bit.ly/LCEmergencyOrder).

Here are some key takeaways:

• The vulnerable (those 65 or older and those with underlying medical conditions) are strongly encouraged to stay home and to take all measures to limit their risk of exposure to COVID-19.
• Employers are encouraged to allow employees to work remotely if able, especially the vulnerable.
• Businesses’ employees and patrons must stay at least 6 feet apart; businesses must limit their occupancy to do so and must post signage reminders. If feasible, touchless hand sanitizer stations will be provided.
• Groups of people greater than 10 are not permitted to congregate in any space that does not readily allow for appropriate social distancing.
• All boaters using Lake County waterways shall comply with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s order requiring no more than 10 people per vessel and that a minimum of 50 feet be maintained between vessels.
• Religious services are considered essential activities. If seniors and those with underlying health conditions choose to attend religious services, they are advised they are putting themselves at risk of COVID-19.

Clermont Reopens Select Amenities

Under the council and my direction, City Manager Darren Gray has devised a phased city plan based on the governor’s plan to reopen Florida.

Here is Phase 1 of our plan regarding city services and buildings, as announced in April 29 news release (https://bit.ly/2WpAAPz):

• All city services currently being provided will continue online and by phone, including permitting and inspections.

• We will continue to answer questions and serve the public on the city’s main line at 352-394-4081 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
• City council meetings will continue to be held via Zoom and broadcasted live on the city’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/CityofClermontGovernment. The public has several options to participate.
• The boat ramp and all city parks with select amenities reopened May 1. Park hours are from sunrise to sunset. All tennis courts and Champions Pointe Disc Golf Course Park are the only sports facilities to open. Rangers and police officers will patrol these areas to ensure the public is following guidelines from the governor and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including practicing social distancing (staying at least 6 feet apart from others) and not gathering in groups of more than 10 people.
• All public restrooms remain closed until further notice.
• The beach at Waterfront Park remains closed, as well as Champions Splash Park, playgrounds, basketball courts, shuffleboard courts, ballfields and pavilions.
• All other city facilities also will stay closed to the public until further notice, including City Hall, Clermont City Center and the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center, including the aquatics center and the Clermont Performing Arts Center.

We also have begun implementing a cautious approach to bring back employees who are still working remotely or on standby. Employees who will be reporting to work are instructed to continue social distancing, wearing masks when interacting with the public or as felt necessary between coworkers, and disinfecting and cleaning work areas.

Our staff has been working hard to keep city services running smoothly. We have been diligently communicating with local, state and federal authorities, taking all possible precautions, and educating the public on our COVID-19 webpage, www.ClermontFL.gov/coronavirus, as well as on the city’s Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/CityOfClermont, and on our new Nextdoor app page.

We are relying on our residents, businesses, staff and visitors to help make Phase 1 of reopening successful.

We ask that you continue to be champions for slowing the spread of this terrible virus while we cautiously transition into a new future.

Remember, we are here to serve you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

– Mayor Gail Ash

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Clermont Mayor Announces Boat Ramp and Parks will Reopen May 1

CLERMONT (April 29, 2020) – Clermont Mayor Gail Ash would like to share the following message:

 Hello to our Clermont community,

 We hope you are staying healthy during these challenging times. We are in week four of the governor’s stay-at-home order, which expires Thurs., April 30.

 After careful consideration and discussion with City Manager Darren Gray, we have decided to reopen the city’s boat ramp and all city parks with select amenities starting Fri., May 1. Tennis courts will be the only sports courts to reopen at this time. Park hours will be from sunrise to sunset.

 Park rangers and police officers will patrol these areas to ensure the public is following guidelines from the governor and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including practicing social distancing (staying at least 6 feet apart from others) and not gathering in groups of more than 10 people.

 All public restrooms will remain closed until further notice. The beach at Waterfront Park will remain closed, as well as Champions Splash Park, playgrounds, basketball courts, shuffleboard courts, ballfields and pavilions. All other city facilities also will stay closed until further notice, such as City Hall, Clermont City Center and the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center, including the aquatics center and the Clermont Performing Arts Center.

 Our staff has been working hard to keep city services running smoothly online and by phone. We continue to answer questions on the city’s main line at 352-394-4081 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. City council meetings continue to be broadcasted live on the city’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/CityofClermontGovernment.

 We have been diligently communicating with local and state authorities, taking all possible precautions, and educating the public on our COVID-19 webpage, www.ClermontFL.gov/coronavirus, as well as on the city’s Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/CityOfClermont, and on our new Nextdoor app page.

 This is a strange time for all of us, but together, we will get through this. We ask that our community members continue to be champions for slowing the spread of this terrible disease, which has taken the lives of at least 10 Lake County residents and over 58,500 Americans.

 We ask everyone to do their part by staying home whenever possible. When you must go out, we urge you to follow the CDC guidelines, including wearing a cloth face covering and practicing social distancing.

 We are proud of our staff, residents, businesses and community for being champions and for stepping up to help each other during this difficult time.

 Remember, we are here to serve you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

 – Mayor Gail Ash

This news release can be found at https://www.clermontfl.gov/news/clermont-mayor-announces-boat-ramp-and-parks-will-reopen-may-1.stml.

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City of Clermont Announces Closure of All City Facilities Following Governor’s Stay-At-Home Order

City Services Continue Online and By Phone

CLERMONT (April 3, 2020) – All City of Clermont facilities are closed through the end of the month.

Closures include all city buildings, parks, beaches and restrooms, as well as the boat ramp. The city made the decision following Gov. Ron DeSantis’s executive stay-at-home order April 1, effective April 3-30, unless extended; the governor permits cities to be more stringent.

“The City of Clermont is taking these measures out of an abundance of caution to help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19),” City Manager Darren Gray said. “This is for the safety and well-being of our residents, staff and the community, and especially to protect those who are most vulnerable – the elderly and those with chronic illness.”

The city’s trails remain open.

“We encourage our able residents to continue staying active while practicing social distancing," Mayor Gail Ash said. "Essential recreational activities defined by the governor’s order include fishing, boating, hiking and biking."

All events and programs at city facilities are canceled until May 11, subject to change, as previously announced.

City services continue online or by phone, whenever possible.

Utility bills may be paid online; if needed, checks (no cash) may be dropped in the slot on the south side of City Hall, 685 W. Montrose St.
Permits may be submitted online. As an alternative, paper applications may be dropped off in the bin on the south side of City Hall.
Inspections are being completed by photo and video submissions.
Records requests and other clerk’s office requests are being processed online.
The city’s main line at 352-394-4081 is being answered from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, as usual.
In Clermont, 23 residents have tested positive as of the latest report from the Florida Department of Health, although it is not clear how many of them are in city limits versus unincorporated with a Clermont zip code. Eighty-two people in Lake County are reported to have the disease, including 75 residents and seven non-residents; two have died and 14 have been hospitalized. Four percent of the nation’s cases are in Florida, and 25 percent of the world’s cases are in the United States. Cases exceeded one million worldwide this week.

Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Based on what is currently known about this virus, spread from person to person happens most frequently among close contacts (within about 6 feet) via respiratory droplets, according to the CDC. When people must go out for essential services and activities, social distancing should be practiced to increase the space between people and decrease the frequency of contact between them.

This is a dynamic, changing situation. COVID-19 is an emerging respiratory disease and there is more to learn about its transmission, clinical course and the populations at increased risk of disease and complications, according to the CDC. Everyone can do their part to help plan, prepare and respond to this emerging public health threat. The latest updates on COVID-19 can be found at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

Updates, FAQs and resources are frequently being posted to the city’s COVID-19 webpage, www.ClermontFL.gov/coronavirus, Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/CityOfClermont, and Nextdoor page.

This news release can be viewed online at https://www.clermontfl.gov/news/city-of-clermont-announces-closure-of-all-city-facilities-following-governors-stay-at-home-order.stml.

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City of Clermont Declares Local State of Emergency, Closes City Buildings in Response to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

City Services Available Online and by Phone

CLERMONT (March 17, 2020) – The City of Clermont has declared a local state of emergency due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Clermont Mayor Gail Ash signed the resolution today due to the serious health threat that COVID-19 poses to Clermont’s residents, visitors and the community. City Council unanimously approved the declaration today at an emergency council meeting in council chambers. The city’s decision followed Lake County’s emergency proclamation on March 16.

“We are taking every possible measure to ensure that the City of Clermont is slowing the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic,” Ash said. “Now is the time for our citizens to practice social distancing and limit their time in public, especially to protect the most vulnerable – the elderly and those with chronic illness.”

The city also announced today that it is closing all city buildings and select parks starting March 18 until March 30. The parks that will close are Bishop, Hancock, Lake Felter, Lake Hiawatha, McKinney, Palatlakaha and West. In addition, all events at city facilities are canceled until May 11 (eight weeks), as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These dates are subject to change.

City services will continue to be available by phone at 352-394-4081 and online at www.ClermontFL.gov whenever possible.

The World Health Organization declared a public health emergency of international concern and has assessed COVID-19’s threat as very high. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared COVID-19 as a high potential public health threat high in the U.S. and globally.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order on March 1 declaring that appropriate measures are necessary to control the spread of COVID-19 and directed that a Public Health Emergency be declared in the state.

These formal actions ensure that the State of Florida, Lake County and City of Clermont can take any prudent action necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the community.

The City of Clermont has been closely monitoring COVID-19 and has been in regular communication with state and local agencies.

For city updates and resources, visit the City of Clermont’s COVID-19 webpage, www.ClermontFL.gov/coronavirus and the City of Clermont Government Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/CityOfClermont; Facebook posts can be viewed on the webpage.

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City of Clermont Cancels City Events and Programs to Prevent Spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

CLERMONT (March 12, 2020) – Today, the City of Clermont announced that it is canceling all city-run events and programs through the end of March as a preventative measure against the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Canceled March city events include Friday Night at the Black Box, Clermont Cycle & Seek, Hotel California, Coffee with the Mayor and Movies Under the Stars. Programs include all senior activities, open gym, recreational programs at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center and more. The Kehlor Building and Champions Splash Park will be closed starting March 13. Stay tuned for future updates and visit www.ClermontFL.gov for the latest information.

“The City of Clermont is taking these measures out of an abundance of caution to help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19),” City Manager Darren Gray said. “This is for the safety and well-being of our residents, staff and the community, and especially to protect those who are most vulnerable – the elderly and those with chronic illness.”

For these reasons, the city also is encouraging people to use its online services whenever possible, as opposed to coming in to city facilities, such as for utility billing payments, development services and clerk’s office requests.

The city is offering full refunds upon request for city-run events and programs until further notice. Private event renters who choose to cancel their city facility rentals will be offered a credit that will be good through the city’s fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2020.

The announcement comes on the heels of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ recommendation today that all mass gatherings be postponed.

For the majority of people, the immediate risk of being exposed to the virus is thought to be low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There is not widespread circulation in most communities in the United States, the CDC said.

Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness, according to the CDC. People who are at higher risk are encouraged to avoid crowds as much as possible, according to the CDC.

Based on what is currently known about this virus, spread from person to person happens most frequently among close contacts (within about 6 feet) via respiratory droplets, according to the CDC. Social distancing strategies increase the space between people and decrease the frequency of contact between them to reduce the risk of spreading the disease.

This is a dynamic, changing situation. COVID-19 is an emerging respiratory disease and there is more to learn about its transmission, clinical course and the populations at increased risk of disease and complications, according to the CDC. Everyone can do their part to help plan, prepare and respond to this emerging public health threat. The latest updates on COVID-19 can be found at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

View the March 6 message from Mayor Gail Ash about preventative measures, resources and city actions taken, as well as a shareable flyer on prevention at https://www.clermontfl.gov/news/coronavirus-a-message-from-the-city-of-clermont.stml.

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Coronavirus: A Message from City of Clermont Mayor Gail Ash

The City of Clermont is committed to your health and safety and takes all potential threats seriously.

Our focus, at this time, is on preventative measures, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds; if unavailable, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Dry hands with disposable paper towels or air dryers (not cloth hand towels).
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cough or sneeze into an elbow or use a tissue and place it immediately in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. 
• Facemasks are not necessary for the general public. They are needed by healthcare professionals and those who are sick.
• Some people may be at higher risk for severe illness, such as older adults and those with chronic medical conditions.

We urge you to follow the CDC’s information for travel and let your supervisor know if you have recently returned from any of the identified countries. The most reliable source of information for coronavirus is available at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Visit the site frequently for the latest updates.

The Florida Department of Health has set up a coronavirus hotline at 1-866-779-6121 and the email COVID-19@flhealth.gov.

The city has taken several precautions and made thorough preparations, such as increasing cleaning schedules, installing additional hand sanitizer dispensers and informing our contractors not to send sick personnel to city facilities.

We are in frequent, close communication with county, state and national authorities and will continue to closely monitor the situation.

As always, please be cautious of possible phishing scams and of those seeking to profit from this.

Thank you for doing your part to help prevent the spread of illness.

     --Mayor Gail L. Ash

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