City discouraging visitors during pandemic

Sisters usually throws out a welcome mat for visitors — but in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, that welcome mat is being pulled.

The City of Sisters is releasing an administrative order strongly discouraging visitors from coming to town — the same kind of order already issued at the Oregon coast, the Columbia Gorge, and in the City of Bend. It will be in effect through May 15.

The order will be sent to all short-term rental property permit holders. Most hotels/motels are already totally closed or only making a few rooms available for essential personnel and workers temporarily here who need lodging.

The order is not an enforceable ban at this time. The City will be monitoring the properties and, if there is widespread disregarding of the order, it could be moved to an enforceable measure, involving fines for noncompliance.

City Manager Cory Misley announced that the Emergency Declaration that went into effect on March 25 has been extended until May 13, when it will be reviewed. The Declaration provides for measures to help limit exposure to and spread of COVID-19 to limit economic impact on Sisters citizens. Misley will continue to monitor the State projections and declarations coming from the governor’s office.

Some of the emergency measures in effect include the closure of City Hall to the public until May 13. They may be reached via email or by calling 541-549-6022. All standing advisory board and committee meetings are canceled until May 13. Scheduled City Council and Planning Commission meetings will be held via teleconference.

The City will not shut off any water and wastewater services ensuring the community continues to receive essential utility services during the pandemic. City will not charge delinquency/late fees.

Cliff Clemens Park play structure, Barclay Park restrooms, the Recycle Center, and the Creekside Campground and dump station are closed until further notice.

For more information on City operations and health resources, check the City website at www.ci.sisters.or.us.