Here is information on lobby hours for banks and other walk-in services as of Tuesday, along with other changes in routine and COVID-19 developments around the area.
Banks
Many local banks and credit unions have ceased in-person lobby visits, while others may be considering limiting or ending their lobby hours in the coming days.
“To join in the efforts to socially distance and do our part to protect and care for each other, we have made the decision to serve our members via our drive-through lanes and close our branch lobbies,” said TwinStar Credit Union President and CEO Jeff Kennedy in a statement released March 17. “The situation with COVID-19 is very volatile and we will continue to review the situation as it evolves. We plan to re-open the branch lobbies when it is deemed safe to do so.”
At Timberland Bank, the lobby is closed until further notice, but customers can continue to use drive through facilities in addition to ATMs, night deposit facilities and online banking channels to transact business.
“Timberland Bank is following the guidance of the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and state and local authorities,” said Timberland President and CEO Michael R. Sand. Lobbies will be closed through the end of March.
Bank of the Pacific locations are also restricted to drive-through and ATM transactions only.
As of Tuesday morning, the lobbies at Our Community Credit Union and First Community Bank are open normal business hours. Before planning an in-person visit it would be wise to check your institution’s status by calling ahead or going to their websites and Facebook pages for the most current information.
Most financial institutions have online and telephone banking options, which are still available as of Tuesday.
Coastal Community Action Program
The Aberdeen location is open and working normal business hours. Safeguards have been put in place to allow for space between individuals. CCAP asks that anyone seeking services who may be sick call the office at 360-533-5100 or email info@coastalcap.org.
Department of Licensing
Licensing service offices and other service counters have been temporarily closed effective Tuesday. Effective immediately, the department will not administer vision tests for driver license applicants because of lack of adequate supplies to clean the machines. Effective March 23, more people will be able to renew their driver license or ID card online. The department temporarily suspended laws and rules that require residents to visit an office to renew every other time, and prohibited customers over 70 from renewing online.
The department expects to resume business at license service offices Monday, but warns to be prepared for the possibility of extended closures.
Family Promise of Grays Harbor
Operations were suspended March 16 until March 23. After that time has passed the organization will plan accordingly for the next week. According to its Facebook page, a skeleton crew will be working behind the scenes to help out where staff can help out but still be safe. Intakes and interviews will be taken remotely. Contact Family Promise at 360-986-3944 or famprom.gh@gmail.com.
Fish and Wildlife
The Region 6 Department of Fish and Wildlife staff in Montesano is not currently available for walk-in service, but are still on the clock and available by telephone. If you need to pick up an item, they may still be available to help you. Hatcheries will also be closed to the public, and the department is encouraging people looking for help with licenses and other activities to call. Contact Region 6 at 360-249-4628 or email TeamMontesano@dfw.wa.gov.
Cancellations
Ocean Shores City Council meeting scheduled for March 23.
