Grafton shuts down playgrounds to prevent COVID-19 spread

Grafton has shut down town and school playgrounds to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Town Administrator Tim McInerney announced Tuesday.

The move comes as the governor extended a stay-at-home advisory through May 4. McInerney said town parks and fields will remain open but stressed that gatherings at all locations are not advised.

There are now 16 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the town.

Other local changes include:

• The Police Department will not be issuing any Solicitors Permits during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The State has launched a pilot project in Nursing Homes and Rest Homes to allow for in-facility testing of symptomatic residents. Facilities in Grafton can access a dedicated deployment hotline at 339-202-3720.
• Real Estate and Personal Property Q4 bills were mailed out Tuesday. Town buildings remain closed to the public but residents can drop off payments and documents in the GOLD box at the front entrance to the Municipal Center or pay online at: https://unipaygold.unibank.com/customerinfo.aspx. Email and voicemail will be checked daily and returned ASAP. Call 508-839-5335 x1171 or email treasurercollectors@grafton-ma.gov.
• The Grafton Building Department will now incorporate new technology to perform their duties. This will include use of FaceTime, photos, and videos. Inspections will be scheduled as usual through the Building Department Office at 508-839-5335 x1190. Approvals will be signed off on electronically.
• If you’re having trouble caring for your pets due to loss of income or disability, the Massachusetts Humane Society can help. Call 781-335-1300 or email masshumane@aol.com.
• The Town is still looking to connect with local established charities to assist with linking those that wish to provide donations (monetary or otherwise) to Grafton residents who are struggling with the affects of COVID-19. If you are or know of a Grafton based charity and are interested in assisting, please reach out to the Town Administrator’s Office at bosgroup@grafton-ma.gov. 
• A COVID-19 text alert system has been established for immediate updates from the state. Please text COVIDMA to 888-777 to subscribe. You can also call the informational and referral hotline from the state at 211. You can contact the Central MA Regional Public Health Alliance at 508-799-1019.