Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
CLOVIS -- In line with public health orders that reopen the state in phases during the COVID-19 pandemic, the city of Clovis will start most of its Phase 1 measures on Monday.
With some exceptions, most city buildings will open lobbies Monday, with residents asked to handle matters online or through appointment.
The city planned a Friday press release, but on Thursday announced the following:.
• The Clovis-Carver Library will open Monday. Patrons are asked to enter through the west door and exit through the south door. Visits should be limited to 30 minutes, and computer time and availability will be limited.
• The Senior Services Department will remain closed, but to-go meals will still be available from the Curry Resident Senior Meals Association.
• The Potter Park Pool and Clovis Aquatic Center will remain closed.
• The Hillcrest Park Zoo will open 9 a.m. Wednesday, with visitors asked to follow a designated one-way route.
• Roy Walker Recreation Center will remain closed. Tax preparation service will still be offered, but patrons are asked to drop off their tax documents and pick up their returns.
• Citizens are asked to wear masks in public, and city employees will wear masks in any inside or outside common area. Mayor Mike Morris said he doesn’t enjoy being told to wear a mask any more than anybody else, but, “you’re going to see me in a mask if you see me out in public.” The Clovis Police Department will not enforce mask use by citizens.
• Businesses will be allowed to open at 25% capacity, with employees required to wear masks. The North Plains Mall will be closed, but any stores with their own entrances to the outside are allowed to open.
• Houses of worship are restricted to 10% of fire code occupancy. Morris felt that was low, but noted pastors he talked to said their buildings are large enough to work within those guidelines while hoping the state soon relaxes the requirement.
Morris said he has advocated the need for a regional approach, given Curry County's low number of confirmed COVID-19 cases and his belief citizens will look out for each other. He said he feels like his words have "fallen on deaf ears," but he will continue advocating for more relaxed restrictions for Clovis and surrounding areas.
