Mayor John Lawler addresses citizens

Mayor John Lawler took to a Facebook video on Tuesday night in an ongoing effort to keep the community informed.

Lawler told listeners about the steps the City of Tea has taken to address the COVID-19 Pandemic, including adopting Resolution 20-03-03 at an emergency council meeting last Tuesday. The resolution is in support of South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s Executive Order 2020-08 that came out last week as well. The Resolution can be read in its entirety online at www.teaweekly.com.

Mayor Lawler stated that he also hosted a meeting with Tea business owners last week. During that meeting he voiced his support for the executive order of the Governor and urged businesses to use common sense measures to operate within the guidelines of the state.

During Lawler’s Facebook video he said, “We want to help them operate their business, but still keep it safe for themselves, keep it safe for their employees and also the patrons that come to visit their business. We have put steps in place that if we need to act further we will.”

Mayor Lawler said that Tea City Hall is closed to the public but staff is still working. Please call city hall at 498-5191 to find out the best way to accomplish your needed business, such as building permits which are being issued. He noted that building inspections are not being done at this time.

As of Tuesday, March 31 until further notice, the Tea city parks are closed. The walking paths/trails will remain open. Mayor Lawler said that basketball hoops will be coming down and the playground equipment is off limits.

All operations and activities for Tea park and Rec have been suspended through May 2. Lawler also noted that baseball fields are closed for social gatherings. He said what is allowed is a parent and child from the same household playing on the fields.

“We as a City try to do our part to try to limit the spread of Coronavirus,” he said.

He noted that for the most part, all the mayors in Lincoln County and Minnehaha County are in agreement to follow the same guidelines.

He encouraged all citizens to do their part and follow the CDC guidelines for social distancing. He stressed the opportunity for families to get back into “good family time”.

He encouraged citizens to fill out their census and to also support local businesses as much as one can.

Lawler also mentioned mental health issues. Please note, for those experiencing stress or anxiety, you are encouraged to call 211, Helpline Center. They offer a 24-hour hotline for mental health support.

Mayor Lawler ended the Facebook video with a reminder to continue social distancing and to reach out to City Hall with questions.