Beginning today, J. Reuben Daniel City Hall will temporarily close to the public at 5 p.m.

City Manager Joseph Scherer said this morning the measure is intended to keep employees safe as a sustained increase in the number of positive COVID-19 cases continues throughout Halifax County as well as to effectively administer city government.

Beginning Tuesday, the city will offer services by appointment only. The closure to the public is in effect until further notice.

“For the safety of our community and employees, departments housed within city hall will temporarily suspend all services on Friday (January 15) for sanitation and disinfection of the whole premises,” the city said in a statement today.

Members of the public are asked to conduct business with the city by phone at 252-533-2800 or online via the city’s website at this link

Examples of services that can be conducted online include the option to download permit applications for building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing and employment applications and departmental information.

A collection drop-box is available in the foyer of city hall for deliveries, permit applications and payments by check only — do not include cash. 

For immediate concerns, call the intended department phone number listed “so we may work with you on a solution for your operational needs.”

The city said it “remains committed to providing all essential services at this time, and city officials will work to return to normal operating procedures as soon as possible. The magistrate’s office will remain open for business with public access.”

Below is a list of phone numbers for those seeking to contact city hall departments. In case of emergency, dial 911.

Directory/Switchboard: 252-533-2800

City Manager: 252-533-2840

Planning & Development: 252-533-2844

Police (non-emergency): 252-533-2810

Finance: 252-533-2841

Human Resources: 252-533-2845

Main Street: 252-533-2838