The Governor has mandated the wearing of masks beginning Monday, July 27th. As White County is seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases, it is important that we all work together to get our schools open and our businesses back on track. I support the Governor in taking this step and am urging residents of Monticello, White County and Indiana to comply with the Governor’s order to "Mask Up".

Take a look back to our April 3rd "Be A Hero" video:



ASL Video of the 'Be A Hero' message (Katherine Tardiff, ADA/Title IV Coordinator)

The City of Monticello is asking our residents for assistance to complete this survey as we apply for an OCRA (Office of Community and Rural Affairs) grant that could provide over $240,000.00 in small business grant relief for businesses in Monticello with 20 or less employees.

The link to the survey is:  https://forms.gle/XdWa7uqoqqmM4kjB6

The City of Monticello will delay the re-opening of city offices for at least one week. This delay is part of our continuing effort to insure the safety of our employees and community as we see increased numbers in social gatherings and positive COVID-19 cases. City offices will continue to provide city services with essential personnel and through remote and virtual meetings.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation and remind you to "mask up" to keep yourself and others safe.

City leaders are re-opening city hall on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 8:00 am, with mitigation protocols in place. Visitors to city hall are required to wear face coverings if attending a meeting or plan to spend time in department offices.

White County is seeing confirmed cases increase, but not at an alarming rate so far. Of course, this is a very fluid situation and could change at any time.

We thank you for your cooperation as we all adjust to a new way of safely providing services to our residents. We will get through this together!

The City of Monticello is proud to announce $55,000.00 of loans assisting Monticello small businesses.  The monies, established by the 'Economic Development Income Tax Fund' (EDIT Fund), were earmarked to:

• promote employment opportunities
• and/or retain/expanding current businesses

The list of businesses receiving loans are:

• Alex's Apparel - Jeff Alexander
• Ashley's Massage & Yoga - Ashley Tincher
• Best's Bowling Center - Ryan and Melissa Best
• BJ's Nails - BJ Wray
• Buschman's Service Center - Paul and Shirley Buschman
• Day & Knight Fitness - Robert Phillips
• Down the Street Bar - Alex and Michelle Hughes
• Frankie Rupe School of Guitar - Frankie Rupe
• It's Just a Flesh Wound - Buddy Wicker
• Maximum Tan - Heather Crowe
• Monticello Community Radio, Inc. - Laura Page
• Necessities - Ingrid Landis
• New Directions Salon & Spa - Susan Alpha
• Pins & Needles on Main - Karen Tiede
• Reclaim Dames & An Udder Sensation - Sharon McKinley
• Rugies Dugout - Salina Vargus
• Skipper's Frozen Yogurt - Skip and Amy Sturgeon
• Slot Farms - Tracy Davidson
• Twin Lakes Cinema - Timothy Luby

  Visit the Monticello-Union Township Public Library Website
  Monticello-Union Township Public Library Facebook Page
  Monticello-Union Township Public Library YouTube Channel

The Monticello-Union Township Public Library is pleased to announce the soft reopening plan for the library. On June 1st, the library will open to the public with limited hours. Patrons will be able to come in the library during these open hours, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. closed for cleaning and then open 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and closed for cleaning and then open from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with Saturday open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This is a 30 minute grab and go situation. You have the ability to come in and use the facilities and check out materials in a convenient time frame. Masks are recommended. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The Library will monitor the number of people within the building.

For patrons who are not ready to come in the library, please feel free to continue using our Curbside Service. Patrons can call the library and request up to 10 items to be checked out. Staff will search for your items, then call you back to reserve a pick-up time. Staff will not accept returns from the vehicle; they will need to be returned to the book drop. Hours for Curbside will be during the limited hours, Monday – Friday, 10 am – 1 pm, 3 pm – 5 pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10 am – 1 pm, 3 pm – 7 pm, and Saturday 10 am to 2 pm.

All items being returned to the library will be placed into quarantine for 3 days and checked in on the 4th day. Due to this quarantine process, your account may not be current.

Thank you for your support during this time! For more information, please visit the library’s website for the full soft reopening plan. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the library at 574-583-2665. Visit our Facebook page for information on upcoming events and our YouTube channel to watch book reviews, storytimes, cooking, and exploring our resources.

  Take the 2020 Census

The City of Monticello, Indiana is participating in the U.S. Census 2020. Here are some brief facts about this year's census:

• The U.S. Constitution mandates a Census count must be held every ten years.
• The data is used to allocate federal dollars which have direct impact on planning for schools, transportation, health programs, and other community needs.
• Census data is also used to draw districts which translates to Congressional seats.
• The Census will be available in 13 different languages online.
• The Census Bureau will provide support in 59 different languages.
• It is safe and easy to complete.
• Your answers are confidential.

Your response is important to our city.  The data from the census is used to allocate federal money for schools, special transportation services, health programs and other needs within our community.  We urge everyone to respond to the Census, which can be securely and safely online.

Video Assistance (English):

Video Assistance (Español):

Video Assistance (American Sign Language ASL):

  Review the Governor's Back on Track Indiana - Stage 3 Document (May 22nd - June 13th)

What Can Be Open Right Now?

• Campgrounds may be open with social distancing limitations.
• Restaurants and bars that serve food may be open at 50% capacity
• Retail stores may operate at 75% capacity. Examples include apparel, furniture, and jewelry stores.
• Community tennis and basketball courts, soccer and baseball fields, and similar facilities may be open with social distancing guidelines.
• Outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, birding, hunting, and bicycle riding are permitted.

What is Closed Right Now?

• Bars and nightclubs
• Cultural, entertainment, and venues
• Playgrounds
• Amusement parks, water parks, and tourism sites
• Festivals, fairs, and parades
• Movie theaters

Guidelines During Stage 3

• Social gatherings of 100 people may take place following the CDC social distancing guidelines
• Hoosiers 65 and over with high-risk health conditions should limit exposure in their communities.
• It is recommended that residents wear face coverings in public settings.
• There are no travel restrictions.

Reopening Schedule

Updated June 4th, 2020

  Review entire Parks Reopening Schedule - June 2020 (Updated June 4th)

The Monticello Parks & Recreation Reopening Schedule is only a guide and may change based on direction given by the Governor, Mayor, and or Monticello Parks Board. How we proceed from here will ultimately be determined by our actions as a community and how they affect the containment/spread of this virus. It appears that our area of the state is lagging behind on the Coronavirus curve. With that said, in most areas, our plan will reflect a delayed Governor’s plan and will move forward as follows.

1. June 8th - Restroom facilities open to the public - This will allow time for seasonal park staff to be scheduled and restroom preparations for public use to be completed.
2. June 12th - Basketball courts / sand volleyball courts to be opened.
3. June 15th - Park playgrounds begin reopening as new surfacing is installed and initial cleaning of the playground equipment is completed.
4. July 4th – Reservation of park facility and field usage to resume – A signed waiver will be required for organized activities & reservations.
5. Parks programing will resume in July - Social distancing and face masks are required until further notice.
6. Trails remain open – Face masks are recommended.
7. Fishing piers and kayak docks remain open – Face masks are recommended while on site.

Monticello City Pool

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns for the health and safety of pool patrons and their families, the Parks Board has made the difficult decision not to open the City Pool for the 2020 season. Park and Pool staff will be making improvements to the facility this season in preparation for opening in the Spring of 2021.

Personal Responsibility

It is important that all individuals utilizing playground equipment and park facilities acknowledge that COVID-19 may be present. All patrons must take personal precautions in preventing the contraction and/or spread of the virus. Social distancing, wearing face masks, and washing of hands before and after playing on parks equipment or utilizing park facilities are strongly recommended and are necessary in helping to contain and defeat this virus.

  Read the Mayor's Proclamation on Mental Health
  Visit the new State of Indiana site 'Be Well Indiana' with a focus on Mental Health Support and Issues.

On May 1, 2020, Monticello Mayor Cathy Gross proclaimed May 2020 as Mental Health Month in our city.  She called upon the citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses and schools in the city to recommit our community to:

• increase the awareness and understanding of mental health
• to learn the steps our citizens can take to protect their mental health
• to focus the need for appropriate and accessible services for all people with mental health conditions

Citizens are encouraged to review the proclamation and visit the Be Well Indiana for an overview of Mental Health issues, assistance and support available.  The site also focuses on how the COVID-19 Pandemic and Mental Health are related.

  Review the City of Monticello - Local Disaster Emergency Declaration Executive Order No. 20-04 - May 4, 2020
  Lea la Declaración de Emergencia por Desastre Local de la Ciudad de Monticello, Orden Ejecutiva Núm. 20-04 - May 4, 2020
  Review the White County Commissioner's Executive Order No. 20-02:  White County Disaster Emergency Declaration
   Review the Governor's Back on Track Stage 2 document beginning May 4th here.

With the reported number of positive Coronavirus cases continuing to rise (having doubled over the past three days, and not expected to peak for another one to two weeks)  it is declared that a state of local emergency continues to exist in the City of Monticello.  With regard to Essential Retail and Commercial Businesses permitted to be open under Governor Holcomb's Executive Orders, the Mayor, City Councl and Board of Public Works and Safety orders:

1. Every person who enters such businesses, including business employees, must wear a mask that covers their nose and mouth.
2. Children under the age of sixteen (16) will not be allowed inside such businesses, unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
3. Such businesses shall monitor and enforce these orders.
4. All those considered 'high-risk' are encouraged to avoid all public gatherings.
5. All persons are recommended to wear face coverings in all public settings.  Residents should also continue to practice social distancing and good hygiene.
6. This Executive Order is supplemental to Governor Holcomb's Executive Order No. 20-26 which all persons are recommended to review and obey.  Pursuant to Governor Holcomb's Order, retail and commercial businesses, including those that have been open for the neccessities of life during previous Governor's Executive Orders may operate at 50% of capacity.

The Executive Order will become effective at 12:01AM (EST) on Wednesday, May 6, 2020, upon the expiration of the Mayor's Executive Order of April 28, 2020, and will expire at 12:01AM (EST) on Wednesday, May 13, 2020.

UPDATED MAY 5, 2020  5:15PM

With the spike in COVID-19 cases within White County, the City of Monticello released a new Local Disaster Emergency Declaration:  Executive Order No. 20-04 of May 4, 2020.  This order expires at 12:01 Wednesday, May 13th.  The order expands the Governor's Stage 2 Order in two areas: Face Masks and Children Entering Businesses.

  Review a news summary of the executive order here.
  Review the City of Monticello Executive Order Extension here.
  Review the White County Executive Order Extension here.
  Review the Governor's Back on Track Stage 2 document beginning May 4th here.

The following is a summary of the Back on Track Indiana Stage 2 proposal beginning tomorrow, Monday, May 4th with the City/County Executive Order included.

Beginning May 4th

• People who are 65 and older along with those having high-risk health conditions should stay home.
• Everyone is encouraged to wear face masks in public.  Residents should also continue to practice social distancing and good hygiene.
• Social gatherings can be up to 25 people as long as there is social distancing.
• Essential travel restrictions will be lifted.
• Remote work encouraged to continue wherever possible.
• Manufacturers, industrial operations and other infrastructure that has not been open to date - can reopen.
• Half of BMV branches will reopen Monday with more in the coming weeks - appointment only.
• Public libraries can reopen according to their own policies and local/CDC guidelines

Beginning May 6th

• City of Monticello Local Disaster Emergency Declaration:  Executive Order No. 20-04 of May 4, 2020 will begin.
• Every person who enters a business, including business employees, must wear a mask that covers their nose and mouth. 
• Children under the age of sixteen (16) will not be allowed inside such businesses, unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. 
• Retail and commercial businesses will be allowed to operate at 50 percent capacity.

Beginning May 8th

• Religious services (statewide – no exceptions) may convene inside places of worship. Updated guidance will be coming.
• A religious service will need to comply with social distancing - seating spaced apart. It is recommended for people to wear face coverings.
• Churches will not be subject to the 25 person social gathering limitation.
• They are encouraged to conduct as many activities as possible virtually and potentially add more services to allow for smaller groups.

Beginning May 11th

• Personal services like hair salons can reopen by appointment only and with social distancing.
• Restaurants can reopen at 50 percent capacity. People will need to sit at small tables and not at the bar.

Beginning May 13th

• City of Monticello Local Disaster Emergency Declaration:  Executive Order No. 20-04 of May 4, 2020 will expire.

The following remains closed during Stage 2

• K-12 and other educational buildings
• No visitors to nursing homes or funerals
• Bars and nightclubs
• Gyms
• Community centers
• Venues including:
  • sport
  • fairs
  • theme parks
  • movie theaters
  • bowling alleys
  • wedding
  • funeral
• Basketball courts, playgrounds, water parks and swimming pools
• Campgrounds
• Adult day cares remain closed through May 31
• Casinos

The RMS Pow Wow is an afternoon of various activities set up on the last day of school each year for RMS students to participate in for fun. For many years some of these activities were bowling, movies in various classrooms, games outside on RMS grounds, etc.

Three years ago, RMS educator Tiffany Roth reached out to the Monticello Fire Department and inquired as to whether we would be willing to set up an obstacle course or something fun for a group of students to come to the station and participate in.

The first year was a big hit with the students and staff. Last year being our third year to participate we welcomed around 25 students, 3-4 staff members and 5-6 parents to the station and again set up an obstacle course of various tasks a firefighter may do during the course of his or her day. Some of these tasks included Pulling hose, spraying water, donning full protective equipment and so on.

This past year we also transported the students and staff atop our beloved antique American LaFrance fire engine to and from the middle school with lights and sirens going.

  Official "Light Monticello Blue for Essential Workers Day" Proclamation - City of Monticello

On Monday, April 20th, Monticello Mayor Cathy Gross asked all citizens to “Light Monticello Blue for Essential Workers.” Mayor Gross said, “The purpose of this proclamation is to honor and support essential workers that are risking their health during the COVID-19 Pandemic.” All essential workers are honored including the public safety & first responders, truck drivers, factory workers, postal/delivery personnel, and restaurant, grocery, retail and pharmacy workers.

Today as we close the official #LightItBlue campaign, we wish to again honor, support and thank our essential workers during the current COVID-19 crisis.

The symbol selected to show our thanks was prepared for the Monticello Police Department by the CDC Group Residence on Countrybrook Drive.  They created a wreath with all of the officers names on it.  The Police and Fire Department made a special visit to them on Tuesday.

Let this wreath continue to show our support to all essential workers and volunteers whether protecting our city, stocking our shelves, or making cloth masks.  You are appreciated ... each one of you.

THANK YOU!

  UPDATE!  Great resource posted by White County United Way.  It will be updated often at their website.  Review and download this information directory

• NEW!  Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases in certain neighboring counties, the City of Monticello and White County has amended and extended its emergency declaration.  The declaration is now extended until May 6th, 2020.  Review City Declaration   |   County Declaration
• REVIEW!  Mayor Gross and Our Hometown Heroes on the importance and now required use of face masks.  English/Español Version   |   ASL Version
• LEARN!  How to make face masks for your family.
• REVIEW!  Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb has extended the State Emergency Declaration to May 5th, 2020.  In order to continue to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the Governor is ordering Hoosiers to stay at home for two more weeks beyond the original April 7th deadline to April 20th. The Governor is expected to update the 'Stay at Home' order on his afternoon briefing, Monday, April 20th.  Review the updated Governor's Order.
  • Review the FAQs about the 'Stay at Home' order.
• Mayor Gross asks community members to Light Monticello Blue!  See how you can honor your hometown heroes.  April 20th-April 30th.
• Please Stay at Home, Stay Safe, and Save Lives.

Community partnerships continue to improve the lives of our residents, even as we go through the challenges that the COVID-19 coronavirus present.

Visual Edge IT and Lightstream have partnered with the Monticello City Parks to provide Free WiFi at the south end of the City Park from 8:00 am-7:00 pm to provide access for students and families that have no internet.

We are so blessed to have such actively engaged community partners that are willing in these uncertain times to provide a resource for our residents. Thank you is not sufficient.

  Official "Light Monticello Blue for Essential Workers Day" Proclamation - City of Monticello
  Light Monticello Blue Printable Window Sign/Poster

On Monday, April 20th, Monticello Mayor Cathy Gross is announcing a proclamation asking all citizens to “Light Monticello Blue for Essential Workers.” Mayor Gross said, “The purpose of this proclamation is to honor and support essential workers that are risking their health during the COVID-19 Pandemic.” All essential workers are honored including the public safety & first responders, truck drivers, factory workers, postal/delivery personnel, and restaurant, grocery, retail and pharmacy workers.

Please demonstrate your support by “showing your blue” in your home, front yards, doorsteps, or businesses.

• Residents can use blue lights, ribbons, and holiday decorations.
• Children can make sidewalk chalk drawings or yard/window signs showing support.
• Encourage your family to have a ‘blue day’ and wear blue clothing, bandanas, or face paint.
• Everyone is also encouraged to post “Light It Blue” photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter (with the hashtags #LightItBlue and #INThisTogether) to show online support of health care workers, first responders, and essential workers.

“Light Monticello Blue for Essential Workers” will continue from April 20th thru April 30th, 2020. As essential workers travel the community or drive to/from work our ‘Light It Blue’ moments are small ways in which we can thank and recognize them.

This video in American Sign Language (ASL) contains information from Mayor Cathy Gross, Fire Chief Galen Logan, and Chief of Police Jason Lingenfelter. Topics include the new mask policy for city employees, what residents can do to protect themselves, and how the police department is changing its procedures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus while still protecting and serving our community.

  UPDATE!  Great resource posted by White County United Way.  It will be updated often at their website.  Review and download this information directory.

NEW! ADA/Title VI Coordinator, Katherine Tardiff presents the Mayor's Message, "Hometown Heroes" in American Sign Language (ASL).  View it here or on YouTube.

• NEW!  Governor Holcomb said that they will be able to reopen the state economy in early May.  But tt will be a slow process that is done in parts.
• NEW!  ISDH (Indiana State Dept. of Health) said it was cautiously optimistic that the efforts made so far are flattening the curve.  There is hope that Indiana could see a reduction in cases in the coming days.  ISDH said many regions of the state are seeing a drop in COVID-19 cases
• UPDATE!  Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb has extended the State Emergency Declaration to May 5th, 2020.  In order to continue to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the Governor is ordering Hoosiers to stay at home for two more weeks beyond the original April 7th deadline to April 20th. The Governor is expected to update the 'Stay at Home' order on his afternoon briefing, Monday, April 20th.  Review the updated Governor's Order.
  • Review the FAQs about the 'Stay at Home' order.
• Mayor Gross and our city heroes ask you to be a hero, too.  Please review this publich health and safety message.  Stay at Home, Stay Safe, and Save Lives.

Twin Lakes School Lunch Pick-up has been suspended until further notice.

The CDC, the State of Indiana, and White County are receiving a lot of questions regarding church services conducting drive-in services, especially with Easter upcoming. While online virtual services are preferred and encouraged to provide the best protection against transmission of the virus, drive-in services will not violate the order as long as CDC Social Distancing and group gathering guidelines are followed. That means a number of restrictions which may include but are not limited to:

• cars must be spaced out
• no passing of communion or collection plates
• no groups of 10 people together out of their cars
• no utilizing the building for restrooms which would invite hundreds to use door handles, etc.