Shrewsbury Town Hall reopens, but for “essential services” with appointment only

Right now (and since some weeks), a Shrewsbury resident following state health guidelines could dine in a local restaurant or buy something in a retail store; yet, if the same resident needs a service from its local government, it is another story.

After delaying the Town Hall reopening date for at least nine times since the state of emergency was declared, after the state economy is in phase III of the reopening process, the town government has decided to reopen, but wait, for “essential services” with appointment only.

According to a statement from the government, starting July 7th, 2020, Shrewsbury residents and “taxpayers” can make appointments between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Fifteen hours a week availability.

It is not clear what government services are considered “essential,” but based on the statement, they are those that cannot be performed online, such as “paying bills” or “applying for permits or licenses.”

To make an appointment, the resident will need to “call the office in which you are seeking an appointment.” However, the appointment is not guaranteed as “staff continues to work alternating schedules.”

If you need more information, the Shrewsbury Post suggest just calling the Town Manager Office at 508-841-8508. For more information regarding the coronavirus COVID-19 crisis, we recommend you to visit Mass.gov.