Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes on Monday began a government-wide partial shutdown in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a Tribal Council order approved Monday, all department heads were directed to establish an essential services schedule through March 27. Department heads are firming up plans on what services will remain in place and which employees can work from home.

A number of tribal programs will be scaled back, however, essential services will remain, like elder care, payroll, accounting, IIM and care of vulnerable populations, according to a media release issued Monday. The CSKT Elders program has 413 elders enrolled in their care. Each of them are being contacted to assure them staff are still on hand to care for them.

The courts are rescheduling cases. Emergency hearings will take place as needed. The public will not be allowed in public defenders offices.

Jean Matt, director of Mission Valley Power, said their service is crucial and they will continue to work with a full staff to keep the lights on.

The personnel offices will remain open, but have canceled in person interviews and rescheduled other interviews. The information technology staff will remain to ensure communication networks are running properly. The People’s Center will be closed for the next two weeks with plans to reopen on March 30.

Tribal Council Chairwoman reminded people to limit public gatherings, telework when possible, and she emphasized everyone’s responsibility to clean their spaces and wash their hands often.

“If you are sick, stay home,” Fyant said. “If you are showing symptoms, call before you go see a medical provider.”