As most of you are likely aware, yesterday the State Department of Health Services issued a new emergency order to address the COVID-19 pandemic.  The full order is available here:

https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/WIGOV/2020/03/24/file_attachments/1409408/Health%20Order%20%2312%20Safer%20At%20Home.pdf

The order puts additional restrictions in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community.  Residents are required to stay at home unless they are engaging in essential activities or work.  There are reasonable exceptions in place, like to go out for groceries or for health care needs.  However, if you don't have a need to go out – if one of the exceptions does not apply – please stay home.  The order specifies that it is enforceable by law enforcement, and that violators are subject to arrest or citation.  However my focus, like that of all involved in responding to this crisis, is the health and welfare of our community.  I want MPD officers to be focusing on other things – like providing extra patrol to the many businesses required to close unexpectedly – rather than enforcing this order.  The Madison community has done a fantastic job so far of complying with the orders that have been issued.  These efforts will pay off...please keep it up!

The new order will also result in some additional changes to MPD services:

• MPD district stations will be closed to the public, starting today.  The entryway to each district has a phone with a direct connection to the 911 Center that can be used to request an officer in case of emergency.
• MPD will continue to take steps to minimize the likelihood of officers being exposed to COVID-19.  This could mean officers not responding to some minor incidents that we typically would, or handling some complaints over the phone.

- Victor Wahl, Acting Chief of Police