(May 20, 2021) Berlin town buildings and meetings are now open to the public.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said the decision came about because the state and county covid-19 positivity rates have remained below 5 percent for seven consecutive days.

People attending in-person public meetings will be required to wear face coverings and to maintain appropriate social distancing.

Limited in-person attendance at meetings will be allowed, with up to 16 seats available to presenters, members of the public, and the press, in addition to town officials and staff.

Doors will be open 15 minutes before the designated start time of the meeting, and seating will be first-come, first-served.  At the start of the meeting, or when capacity has been reached, the doors will be locked to entry from the outside.

Public meetings will continue to be streamed live on Facebook, and public comment will be taken from those in attendance, followed by written questions or comments submitted before noon on the day of the meeting.

“We will continue to monitor the state and county positivity rates to help keep our staff safe and ensure the continuity of government services,” Tyndall said.

Masks are required by members of the public entering town buildings and everyone that attends in-person public meetings. All are asked to follow the CDC and Maryland Department of Health recommendations for social distancing and regular handwashing.