Elkhart County meetings transition to virtual only

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- Elkhart County announced Wednesday that all public meetings at the administrative offices in Goshen will be held virtually until further notice due to the increase in COVID-19 cases.

The public is encouraged to attend virtually and will not be allowed in the building.

The Elkhart County Finance Committee meeting scheduled for this Thursday is cancelled.

Details on how to participate in virtual meetings will be placed on the county’s website.

The decision was made after consultation and coordination with health officials. All Elkhart County hospitals have exceeded capacity and are sending patients elsewhere, county officials said in the press release.

“This is not a symbolic gesture on our part,” added Suzie Wierick, Elkhart County Commissioner, District 3. “Public gatherings, particularly indoors, are making a bad situation, worse. As public officials, we have a responsibility to do whatever we can to protect the health and safety of every man, woman and child in Elkhart County.  Going virtual is a prudent decision that will help mitigate the spread of COVID. We will go back to meeting in person when COVID is under control in Elkhart County.”