Emergency Ordinance:

On Tuesday, May 12th Brookings City Council enacted Emergency Ordinance 20-007, an Ordinance modifying certain measures which had been outlined in Ordinance 20-005 (Revised). Resolution 20-007 outlines reopening measures for certain businesses that had been affected by Ordinance 20-005 (Revised).

City Hall & City of Brookings Facilities Information:

The City & County Government Center will reopen on Monday, May 18, 2020 at 8:00 AM.  This joint decision was made due to the minimal number of cases of COVID-19 in Brookings County, the adoption of City Reopening Ordinance 20-007, and the Brookings County Commission’s action at their May 5, 2020 meeting.

City of Brookings offices located within the Government Center will remain closed to the public on Fridays until further notice. Staff will continue to be available by phone and email. County offices will be open on Fridays during normal business hours.

City and County offices will be implementing health and safety precautions to protect community members and staff. These may include but are not limited to: hand sanitation areas, social distancing, limited occupancy to prevent crowding in offices and hallway areas, cloth face coverings, protective barriers, and other CDC guidelines. There will also be increased sanitization and cleaning within the facility. The intention of implementing these safety measures is precautionary out of consideration for the safety and health of Brookings County residents.

These measures are subject to change based on a reevaluation of current circumstances and conditions.

Monday, May 18th will also be the start of the incremental reopening of other City and County facilities and offices. Reopening measures, dates and times will vary. Community members are strongly encouraged to call ahead to verify access and hours. More information on each of these can be found in the "City of Brookings Facilities & Department Information" below. Brookings County information can be found at www.BrookingsCountySD.gov

City staff are currently working on plans which will incrementally reopen City of Brookings facilities and departments (listed below), while following CDC guidelines and requirements implemented by Ordinance 20-007.  Please note that each department/facility may implement different reopening measures based on the nature of the operations each performs. 

Announcements of changes/reopening will be made on the City website and social media pages. Details will be outlined to meet each specific facility’s needs/requirements. This page will be updated to reflect the changes on a regular basis. 

To prevent the spread of COVID-19 community members are encouraged to continue to contact departments and offices via phone, email, and to utilize online services whenever possible. Residents can also utilize Engage Brookings which is available on the website and by mobile app (download on the app stores).

We want to thank community members for their understanding and patience as we begin the reopening process. Our primary concern is always the safety and health of Brookings citizens and employees. Officials will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and update the public as changes to operations occur.

City of Brookings Facilities & Department Information:

To prevent the spread of COVID-19 we ask that you continue to contact departments and offices via phone, email, and to utilize online services whenever possible. You may also utilize Engage Brookings which is available here and by mobile app (download on the app stores).

These measures are subject to change based on a reevaluation of quickly changing circumstances and conditions. Before visiting, community members are strongly encouraged to call ahead to verify access and hours.

The Brookings Public Library - Updated May 21

The Brookings Public Library is currently closed to the public. The Library has also suspended all Library-sponsored programs, classes, and events.

Curbside pick-up service is available Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. –4:30 p.m. Learn how the service works here. Use of the computer lab will be available by appointment only. 

To schedule a computer lab appointment, individuals can call the Brookings Public Library (605-692-9407) during regular weekday hours. Sessions are a maximum of 45 minutes, and an individual can sign up for one session per week to allow access for more people. 

Only those 16 or older are allowed to sign up, and only one individual per appointment will be allowed in the building. If a parent or guardian must bring minor children along, children must stay with the parent or guardian in the computer lab, and maintain social distancing from others using the computer lab. 

Individuals will be required to wear a mask for the duration of their visit, and must use hand sanitizer upon entering the building. The Library will have disposable masks available for those who do not have their own, and hand sanitizer will be provided. A limited number of computers will be available for use to maintain social distancing in the space. 

Library staff will escort registered individuals to the computer lab at the scheduled time, and be available for printing ($0.10/page black and white, $0.25/page color). Physical browsing of the Library’s collection is not allowed during this time.

With the addition of Curbside Pick-Up at the Brookings Public Library, staff would like to remind the public about a couple of items related to checking out and returning library materials.

Please follow all due dates for materials and return them on time using the drop slots located south of the Library entrance. Fines will accrue if items are returned late. If patrons are unsure of due dates, they can view their items out and due dates by logging into their accounts at https://brookings.tlcdelivers.com/ using their library card number with no spaces, and the first eight characters of their last name in lowercase letters as the pin. If their last name is shorter than 8 characters, then it’s just their last name. Items can also be renewed through their account login, if they are eligible for renewal, haven’t already been renewed before, or if no one else is waiting for the item.

Library Staff are “quarantining” returned items for 2-3 days upon return, so they will still show up on patron accounts until cleared to check in. No fines will be accrued during the period while items are quarantined, but fines can still accrue if the item is turned into the book drop after the due date.

Curbside Service and Computer Lab (by appointment only) is available Monday-Friday from 9:30 am-12:00 pm and 1:00pm-4:30 pm. Available items placed on hold are generally available by the next Curbside day, if not the same day. Staff ask that patrons pick up curbside items promptly, as items will only remain on hold for one week. More information about Curbside Pick-Up and how to place holds can be found at www.brookingslibrary.org under Library Services.

Brookings County residents who do not already have a Brookings Public Library card can apply for one by going to www.brookingslibrary.org and clicking on Apply for a Library card under How Do I?

The Library has a variety of online services that can be accessed by visiting www.brookingslibrary.org.

Contact the Brookings Public Library: (605) 692-9407
Website Link: www.brookingslibrary.org
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/bkglib/

Brookings, Parks, Recreation, & Forestry - Updated June 5

Administrative offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday (the department is available via phone or email).

The Brookings Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department has suspended many recreation activities and has closed all City of Brookings recreation facilities. This includes the Brookings Activity Center, Hillcrest Aquatic Center, Larson Ice Center, and some park facilities  (note: Parks and playgrounds are open, certain facilities like restrooms and basketball courts may be closed at this time - they are currently roped off or marked with signage)

Edgebrook Golf Course, parks (except playground equipment), nature trails, and open spaces are open for recreation opportunities.

Larson Nature Center at Dakota Nature Park is open with limited hours please see below:

Park playground equipment in the City of Brookings reopened on Wednesday, May 20th. Signs are posted at each site identifying the risk and reminding users of recommended personal hygiene practices and appropriate social distance guidelines.

The Hillcrest Aquatic Center will be closed for the 2020 Summer season

The Brookings Parks and Recreation Department understands the important value parks have to our community. We also take seriously the health of our users. Given the current situation and based on the recommendations from the National Parks & Recreation Association, basketball courts in the City of Brookings are posted as temporarily closed effective March 31, 2020, to help promote social distancing as well as limit the transmission of the COVID-19 virus through surface contact. Closed areas are identified with signage.

The cancellation of activities includes many scheduled youth, adult, and senior programs.  The inaugural Community Games have been canceled for 2020. The Brookings Parks and Recreation Department has also suspended activities housed inside district facilities until further notice. This includes open gym and swim at Brookings High School and Court rentals and coed volleyball at 5th Street Gym.

Given the uncertainty of our current situation,  Brookings Park and Recreation Department summer program registration, which was scheduled to begin on Tuesday, April 7th, has been postponed for many activities and programs until further notice with the exception of the following: 

Currently, summer program registration for tennis, soccer, and naturalist programs is available.
All programs which are open for registration have been modified to meet CDC guidelines to ensure the safety of participants and instructors. The First Tee program will also be modifying their program and information outlining changes will be released as it becomes available. Athletic associations who have had their submitted practice plans approved by the Park and Recreation Department may now start practicing.

Please follow the City of Brookings Website and the Brookings Park and Recreation Facebook page for more information regarding the times and cost of all programs. Program registration is available on the following website: https://apm.activecommunities.com/cityofbrookings/

For information regarding programs offered by other organizations listed within the summer brochure, the department asks individuals to please contact those organizations directly to determine their status. The Park and Recreation Department will continue to monitor and assess the current situation and will continue to reopen summer registration when appropriate. Please watch the City of Brookings website and Brookings Park and Recreation Facebook page for further updates.

Contact the Brookings Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department: (605) 692-2708
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/204/Parks-Recreation-Forestry
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/brookingsparkandrec/

Edgebrook Golf Course

The Brookings Parks and Recreation Department opened Edgebrook Golf Course on Thursday, April 9^th, while utilizing safety protocols derived from United States Golf Association and South Dakota Golf Association recommendations.

Golfers will be asked to check in and make payments at a walk-up window on the south side of the clubhouse. The restroom within the clubhouse will be open, but eating, drinking, etc. will not be allowed within the building at this time, and course restrooms will be closed. Staff will be cleaning and disinfecting facilities and equipment regularly.

Groups will be limited to four Individuals who should practice social distancing by maintaining at least six feet of separation between themselves and other group members. Tee times are also being spread out to allow adequate space between groups. Cart use will be limited to one person per cart, with the exception of individuals who live together.

A full list of the Edgebrook Golf Course COVID-19 safety protocols can be viewed by visiting www.golfedgebrook.com

Contact the Brookings Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department: (605) 692-2708
Website Link: www.golfedgebrook.com
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/edgebrookgolfcourse/

City of Brookings City Manager’s Office - Updated May 15

Administrative offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday (Note: the department will be available via phone or email).

Contact the City Manager’s Office: (605) 692-6281
Website Link: https://cityofbrookings.org/121/City-Manager

City of Brookings City Clerk’s Office - Updated May 15

Administrative offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday (Note: the department will be available via phone or email).

Contact the City Clerk’s Office: (605) 697-8641
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/149/City-Clerk

Brookings Airport - Updated May 15

Offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday (Note: the department will be available via phone or email).
All Airport services are open and operational.

Contact the Brookings Airport: (605) 697-8664
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/223/Airport

Community Development - Updated May 15

Offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday (Note: the department will be available via phone or email).

Contact the Community Development Office: (605) 692-6629
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/130/Community-Development

Engineering - Updated May 15

Offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday (Note: the department will be available via phone or email).

Contact the Brookings Engineering office: (605) 692-6629
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/208/Engineering

Finance Department - Updated May 15

Offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday (Note: the department will be available via phone or email).

Contact the Brookings Finance office: (605) 692-6281
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/200/Finance-Department

Human Resources Department - Updated May 19

Offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday (Note: the department will be available via phone or email).

Contact the Brookings Human Resources office: (605) 697-8668
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/247/Human-Resources

Brookings Police Department - Updated May 15

Until further notice: Public access to the Brookings Police Department will remain restricted - all services are available. The Department is asking for individuals to please call ahead to (605) 692-2113 when possible to see if needs can be handled via phone.

Currently, doors to the Brooking Police Department will remain locked as they are on evenings and weekends. Citizens coming to the PD for police services will first communicate with dispatch over the intercom to determine if their request can be handled via phone call. If so, they will be directed to call the PD and will they will then be connected with an officer.

If the purpose of the citizens’ visit is determined to require face-to-face contact with an officer, dispatch will ask some screening questions. If it is decided that a meeting will move forward, officers will then meet the citizen in the front entryway and either take the report there or bring them into the conference room if needed.

At this time please pay for parking tickets using the dropbox for payments made with cash or check by phone, or go online to pay with a credit card.

The Brookings Police Department regrets to announce the cancelation of the 2020 SafetyTown program.  Due to current social distancing requirements we felt that it would be very difficult if not impossible to maintain a safe separation between all those involved.  The safety of the community is our number one priority.  This was a difficult decision to make because of what this program means to us and what we know it means to this community.  We are very much looking forward to next year when we hope to continue with this awesome program.

Contact the Brookings Police Department: (605) 692-2113
For Emergencies: dial 911
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/205/Police-Department
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/Brookings-Police-Department-SD-1006258532765262/

Brookings Fire Department - Updated May 15

The Brookings Fire Department offices are currently closed to the public. The Brookings Fire Department continues to operate and to be available for emergency situations.

Contact the Brookings Fire Department: (605) 692-6323
For fire/emergencies: dial 911
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/231/Fire-Department
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/Brookings-Fire-Department-128238337211813/

Brookings Regional Landfill - Updated May 28

The Brookings Regional Landfill is open to the public.

An intercom system has been installed for Landfill office transactions.

The City of Brookings Regional Landfill hours of operation are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Curbside Garbage and Recycling pick-up continues as usual.

Contact the Brookings Landfill: (605) 693-3667
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/254/Landfill

Brookings Municipal Liquor Store - Updated May 12

The Brookings Municipal Liquor Store will implement phase two of its reopening opening its doors to an in-store shopping experience starting Wednesday, May 13th, at 9:00 a.m. Pre-orders placed by phone and email for pickup are still encouraged.

Upon implementing phase two of the store’s reopening, staff will follow all guidelines outlined in the current legislation required for retailers/grocery stores along with OSHA’s recommendations to mitigate COVID-19 spread. Hand sanitizer stations will be set up at key areas. 

Patrons will be asked to practice social distancing and to follow arrow guides that have been marked on the floor. Customers will be able to browse the store’s selection by following the direction of arrows marked with the products they are shopping for including wine, beer, and liquor. Staff will be wearing protective PPE, and checkout areas have had protective plexiglass barriers installed.

Liquor Store hours are Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

To submit pre-orders, please call (605) 692-5613 or email BHanson@cityofbrookings.org or JCoplan@cityofbrookings.org.

Contact the Brookings Municipal Liquor Store: (605) 692-5613
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/266/Liquor-Store

Street Department - Updated May 15

Offices are open to the public Monday - Thursday.
Closed to the public Friday; (note: the department will be available via phone or email) however, crews will continue to maintain city streets.

Contact the Brookings Street Department: (605) 692-2016
Website Link: http://cityofbrookings.org/273/Street-Department

The Swiftel Center - Updated June 10

The Swiftel Center will fully re-open the facility to the public on Monday, June 8. In preparation, the administrative team has worked closely with the City of Brookings leadership and VenuWorks leadership as well as public health professionals at Brookings Health System to create a comprehensive health safety program based on the most effective health safety practices currently available.

The Swiftel Center actively strives to maintain a facility that provides a diverse, exceptional and positive guest experience including providing a clear and transparent safety program to our guests. It is crucial for all Swiftel Center services to meet and exceed health guidelines, continuing to provide “MIDWEST HOSPITALITY AT ITS BEST” and ensuring guests can come back with confidence.

VIEW ENTIRE RELEASE HERE >> https://www.swiftelcenter.com/p/about/press-releases/swiftel-center-to-re-open-to-the-public

Contact the Swiftel Center: (605) 692-7539
Please visit Website: www.swiftelcenter.com for updates.
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/swiftelcenter/

FAQ:

Q: Who do I call if I know of a violation and want to report it?

A: Please call the Brookings Police Department Non-Emergency line at (605) 692-6323

Q: Are parks closed?

A: Parks are not closed. Open spaces, trails, etc. and many other park facilities may still be utilized. Certain park facilities such as restrooms, basketball courts, etc. may be closed for use or have special hours. Facilities that are closed will be blocked off or have signage posted. Residents/families are encouraged to continue to get outdoors and utilize the City’s park green spaces, trails, and nature areas.

Q: I’m experiencing possible symptoms of COVID-19. What should I do?

A: Please contact the your health care provider.

Q: What if I need something on Friday and the office is closed to the public? 

A:  Many City-operated facilities and offices will be closed to the public on Fridays; however regular city operations will still be taking place. Contact City offices by phone, email, and www.engagebrookings.com. 

Q: What about emergencies? Will the Police Station and Fire Department still be responding?

A: Yes. The Brookings Police Department and Brooking Fire Department are still fully operational all services are available.

Currently, doors to the Brookings Police Department will remain locked as they are on evenings and weekends. Citizens coming to the PD for police services will first communicate with dispatch over the intercom to determine if their request can be handled via phone call. If so, they will be directed to call the PD and will they will then be connected with an officer.

If the purpose of the citizens’ visit is determined to require face-to-face contact with an officer, dispatch will ask some screening questions. If it is decided that a meeting will move forward, officers will then meet the citizen in the front entryway and either take the report there or bring them into the conference room if needed.

City Press Releases/Spotlights Related to COVID-19:

SPOTLIGHT: City Of Brookings Closures & Cancellations

UPDATE: 2020 SafetyTown Program Canceled Published May 15, 2020 

PRESS RELEASE: Brookings Park and Recreation Department Opens Some Summer Program Registration Published May 14, 2020 

PRESS RELEASE: Brookings Municipal Liquor Store to Begin Phase Two of Reopening Process Published May 12, 2020

PRESS RELEASE:  City of Brookings Facilities Remain Closed - Reopening Measures Planned for Mid-May Published May 5, 2020

PRESS RELEASE:  Application to Designate Organizations as Essential Under COVID-19 Ordinances - Published April 16, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: City of Brookings Increases Citizen Participation in the Democratic Process - Published April 14, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: Combined Brookings Municipal/School Board Election will be Postponed to June 23, 2020 - Published April 13, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: City of Brookings to Open COVID-19 Emergency Call Center - Published April 13, 2020

VIDEO UPDATE: Emergency Ordinance Extension and Amendment Discussion - Published April 8, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: COVID-19 Emergency Ordinance 20-005 Extended Through May 6th - Published April 8, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: Brookings City Offices and Facilities to Remain Closed to the Public Until May 6th - Published April 3, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: Park & Recreation Department to Postpone Summer Program Registration - Published April 2, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: City of Brookings to Temporarily Close Park Playgrounds and Basketball Courts - Published March 30, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: Ballot-By-Mail Option for the Combined Municipal/School Board April 14, 2020 Election - Published March 27. 2020

PRESS RELEASE: Brookings Spring Cleanup Curbside Pick-up to Continue with Safety Measures - Published March 27, 2020

SPOTLIGHT: Emergency Ordinance 20-005 At a Glance - Published March 24, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: City of Brookings to Hold Special City Council Meeting for COVID-19 Ordinance - Published March 23, 2020

SPOTLIGHT: COVID-19 | Smart and Safe Shopping and Dining Tips - Published March 20, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: Public Access to Brookings Police Department Restricted. All Services Still Available - Published March 17, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: Brookings County and City to Close Offices and Facilities to the Public - Published March 17, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: Brookings Mayor Keith Corbett Addresses the Brookings Community | Covid-19 Response - Published March 16, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: The City of Brookings Continues to Take Measures to Prevent Coronavirus Spread - Published March 16, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: The Swiftel Center Guest COVID-19 Information - Published March 13, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: City of Brookings Prepares for Coronavirus  - Published March 13, 2020

PRESS RELEASE: South Dakota Prepares for COVID-19  - Published February 28, 2020

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information & Resources:

COVID-19 Response Information/Health Resources

Brookings Health System | Stay Strong Brookings

www.brookingshealth.org/StayStrong

Be Ready Brookings

www.bereadybrookings.com
Be Ready Brookings (BRB) is a preparedness website created by the Brookings County Pandemic Planning and Coordination Committee (PPCC). The PPCC is a partnership of the Brookings Health System, Brookings County Emergency Management, the city of Brookings, the Brookings County Chapter of the Red Cross, 3M, the South Dakota State University, and faith-based/community organizations working with public health agencies.

South Dakota Department of Health

https://doh.sd.gov/news/Coronavirus.aspx
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) continues to monitor the emergence of the novel coronavirus.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

www.cdc.gov
Updated Daily: Coronavirus updates, information and news provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

World Health Organization (WHO)

www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Updated Daily: Coronavirus updates, information, and news provided by the World Health Organization.
The Helpline Center (211)

https://www.helplinecenter.org/when-disaster-strikes/
211 provides a 24/7 hotline that is connected to a trained team that is able to provide up to date information. If you need assistance finding food, or basic essential needs, call 211 to speak to someone who can help.

Mental Health Resources

The Brookings Area Mental Health Resource Guide: https://www.helplinecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/HLCRD-Brookings-Area-Mental-Health-Guide.pdf is up to date and available on the Helpline Center website. Helpline Center staff are also available 24/7 to help deescalate situations and directly explore with individuals the resources available in Brookings County.

Helpline Center staff can be reached by calling 211, texting your zip code to 898211 or on their website at https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1-community-resources/

Campus/SDSU

JacksRBack SDSU Students Back to School/Community Plan

https://www.sdstate.edu/jacksrback

Business/Economic Resources

Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce COVID-19 Business Resources

www.brookingschamber.org/covid-19-info

Brookings area Chamber of Commerce Back to Business Toolkit

https://chambermaster.blob.core.windows.net/userfiles/UserFiles/chambers/1460/CMS/Chamber-Back-to-Business-Toolkit.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0SLs6HbhWtziWwoxDuiCGfQBseWPv4At1cR2-6XdfTEmkH4N8BY_hzVhQ

TogetherBrookings.com

www.TogetherBrookings.com
A dashboard, created by Brookings Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), that tracks important local economic indicators such as employment, construction activity, consumer behavior, and overall sales revenue. The site also provides information about local prevention efforts and community resources related to COVID-19.

Brookings COVID-19 Relief Fund

www.brookingsfoundation.org/covidrelieffund.html

Brookings Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Travel and Tourism Information COVID-19

https://visitbrookingssd.com/resources/covid-19-travel-and-tourism-information

CDC Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-response.html

South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation | COVID-19 Resources 

https://dlr.sd.gov/covid_19_resources.aspx

Avera COVID-19 Tookit for Businesses

https://www.avera.org/app/files/public/76737/avera-covid19-toolkit-for-businesses.pdf