WASHINGTON ISLAND — As COVID cases spike on Washington Island, officials are restricting services to help slow the spread.

Positive test results on the island continue at about 50%, and not everyone is following COVID-19 protocols, according to the weekly update from Supervisor Hans Lux.

Restrictions will take place during the week of Jan. 4-8.

Police officers will continue to be on duty, however, the police department offices will be closed, according to a news relase.

Incidents will be handled whenever possible by phone if the officer’s presence is not required on scene.

Those with an emergency should call 911.

To leave a message for an officer to return, call #920-847-2355. If you wish to reach the on-duty officer, contact Door County Dispatch at #920-746-2400, Option #0.

Washington Island School began virtual learning this week and will continue through Jan. 18. The school will revisit this decision on Jan. 15.

“We are not immune from the trouble and problems of the rest of the world,” Lux said in the news release. “We had hoped this would never happen here. But it has, and we now need to deal with it as quickly as possible. It will take all of us to care enough for one another as to follow through with the efforts being made to stop this spread.”

Other restrictions put into place to slow the spread of the virus include:

• The Island Exchange/Landfill will have restricted hours, 8 a.m. to noon Monday and Wednesday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, with a set of rules going into effect to help keep contact with others to a minimum while also keeping everything running smoothly.
• The Washington Island Community Van will not be available at this time. The decision to restart the service will be made prior to Jan. 11th.
• The Town Offices will be closed the week of Jan. 4th, with any messages left for the staff being answered when they are available to do so.
• The Rec Center will be closed the entire week and is planned to reopen by Jan 18th, though it follows the school schedule as to access.
• The WICHP is also offering assistance with errands to anyone on Washington Island who has the virus or who is in quarantine. Please call #920-847-2108 to utilize these services and remain in quarantine to reduce the spread of the virus.