Mayor Michael Harakal Jr. released a statement March 13 announcing the Whitehall Township Municipal Building will be closed to the public until further notice due to COVID-19.

As of March 16, there were confirmed cases in Northampton and Lehigh counties, one in each, but township staff are concerned they could come in contact with an undiagnosed carrier or someone asymptomatic.

Despite the closure, township administration will continue to work inside the building, but some procedures are changing as a result.

Property tax bills were sent out to Whitehall residents March 1, but those payments may no longer be made in person. The treasurer’s tax office announced payments may be made by mail, at Fulton Bank, 1323 Grape St., or deposited in a lock box located in front of the municipal building, 3219 MacArthur Road.

All cash payments must be made at Fulton Bank, and payments sent by mail must include a mailing address to which a receipt and additional information may be sent.

The development office also announced alternative procedures for sending in construction permit applications. Permits can be digitally scanned and submitted online to zoningofficer@whitehalltownship.com or sent in via regular mail.

Street opening and curb and sidewalk permits can similarly be emailed to gweaver@whitehalltownship.com or clagler@whitehalltownship.com or sent via regular mail.

Requests for certificate of occupancy inspections can only be submitted via regular mail or through the drop box at the township building.

“During this interim emergency period, permit application fees will be assessed at time of permit issuance. All fees due will be calculated and payable at time of subsequent permit issuance,” according to a statement released by the township.

The township will also continue to hold public and advertised meetings for the planning commission and zoning hearing board “until a directive is issued by Governor Wolf relieving statutory review time limitations.”

The statement goes on to clarify “if you have an item scheduled for either of these meetings and do not wish to attend, please contact the bureau ASAP to secure the necessary paperwork to extend your review period.”

Harakal explained he was hesitant to close the building at first, but after a review with staff, they all decided it was best to respond proactively. He went on to say these measures allow the township to “cover what they need to cover” and maintain the protection of both township staff and the general public.

Further information and application forms will be posted to the township’s website, whitehalltownship.org.