Mahaska County is asking the public to stay away from the County Courthouse as much as possible.  County Board Chairman Mark Groenendyk says these guidelines take effect at noon Wednesday (3/18).

“We are going to try and reduce the foot traffic in the Courthouse, the personal contact, and try and encourage the social distancing that the President and Governor of Iowa have encouraged.  We’re going to encourage everyone to do more activities with the Courthouse either by phone, questioning the appropriate department head.  We’re also going to encourage as much done electronically, payments, etc.  So we’re really asking the public to eliminate themselves as much as possible physically from the Courthouse, except by appointment only, and do as much possible electronically.”

Groenendyk says the guidelines are a first step and could be changed if the need arises.