BCAT News

Due to an order from Gov. Charlie Baker that all non-essential businesses and other entities close more town employees will be working from home.

Town Administrator Paul Sagarino said during Monday night’s Board of Selectmen meeting and in a message on the town website that the town will be adhering to the order.

“On Monday, March 23, 2020, Governor Baker issued a ‘stay home’ directive advising that all non-essential functions and operations be performed remotely to the extent possible,” Sagarino wrote. “After consulting with the Burlington Board of Health, non-essential employees (not including Police, Fire, and certain Public Works) in the Town of Burlington are being directed to work remotely beginning Tuesday, March 24, until April 7, or until otherwise directed by the Town Administrator.”

There are some limited exceptions for essential functions not listed by the governor.

“Department heads will be required to make sure essential functions are still performed and that may require some employees being called in for essential tasks,” Sagarino explained to BNEWS in an email. He also answered a follow-up about why Boards of Health aren’t considered “essential” by saying that while the clerks will be sent home Health Director Susan Lumenello and other key staff members will likely stay at the office.

Town employees will also be working from home to help residents to whatever extent they can considering the situation.

“Staff will still be available via email,” Sagarino said. “Please visit our website at www.burlington.org to see what tasks can be accomplished online. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time.”