Norwalk City Hall To No Longer Require Appointments

NORWALK, CT —Mayor Harry Rilling announced Monday that City Hall would be open to the public with no appointments necessary beginning May 20.

According to a news release, City Hall has been open to the public by appointment-only since September in response to the ongoing coronavirus crisis, and upwards of 80 residents conduct business inside the building on any given day.

Though visitors will no longer need an appointment, they must check in at the building's security desk, Rilling said. All city departments will be available for routine business from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"The public health situation is improving," Rilling said in a news release. "More people are being vaccinated, with more than 50 percent of Norwalk residents having received at least one dose. New positive COVID-19 cases are holding steady, and in many areas of the state, including Norwalk, case rates are going down. Things are heading in the right direction and it is time to get back to a greater sense of normalcy."

Rilling also noted the health and safety of City Hall staff and the public has been and continues to be his top priority.

"I am incredibly proud that we have provided critical services throughout the pandemic and kept Norwalk running at a high level," Rilling said. "I appreciate the public's patience and the staff's dedication during this public health crisis. These past 13 months have been a challenge for all of us, and while we are not out of the woods just yet, I am confident that we can reopen City Hall without appointments and keep everyone safe."

According to city officials, the opening without appointments on May 20 was strategically selected for two reasons: the date provides ample time for city staff to have received both doses of a coronavirus vaccine and coincides with Gov. Ned Lamont's announcement that many coronavirus restrictions will be lifted across the state on May 19.

The customer service window inside the main entrance and the recreation and parks window outside the building will be staffed every weekday, city officials said. Those who wish to visit a department in-person should proceed to the security desk to be checked in and given a clearance badge.

Residents are encouraged to continue using many of the city's online services, as most routine business can be conducted remotely.

Face coverings and physical distancing are still required while inside City Hall, and those who are not feeling well are asked not to visit the building and consult with their medical provider.

For a staff directory and listing of departments, visit norwalkct.org.