WARDEN — Warden City Council passed a resolution proclaiming a state of emergency during the March 24 regular meeting because of the COVID-19 crisis. The council also provided workers with additional sick leave time and waived late penalties for utility bills.

Warden is the third city in the south Grant County area to pass a resolution ratifying their mayor’s emergency proclamation.

The resolution stated that Warden City Hall is closed to the public until further notice. City employees are continuing in their jobs and have created ways to continue to help the public in spite of the closure.

The park will remain open during the COVID-19 crisis. However, the playground area is closed.

The resolution allows for the council to have meetings over the phone. The public comment portion of council meetings has been suspended. Public comments can be submitted via email or in writing.

All hiring will be frozen, and all non-essential equipment purchases will be suspended. The resolution expires on April 28, unless the council chooses to extend it.

The council passed an ordinance temporarily waiving interest charges and late penalties. Utility services will not be terminated for non-payment. City staff will work with residents on payment plans when necessary. The waiver is in place for two months from the time of adoption.

The council also approved a resolution giving full-time employees up to 80 extra hours and part-time employees up to an extra 40 hours of emergency paid sick leave.

Rachal Pinkerton may be reached via email at rpinkerton@suntribunenews.com.