Allegheny suspends poll-worker training, limits trips for seniors at Kane centers

Allegheny County officials on Monday announced several changes in county government operations related to the response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Elections

The county’s Elections Division is suspending all poll-worker training and all public voting system demonstrations at libraries through March 27.

Voting system demonstrations will continue 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays in Room 604 of the County Office Building at 542 Forbes Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh.

Voters also can learn about the county’s new voting system, get step-by-step instructions and watch instructional videos at alleghenyvotes.com. April 21 is the deadline to apply online to vote by mail-in, or absentee, ballot.

Kane Community Living Centers

A “no-visitor” policy is in place at the Kane Community Living Centers for assisted and senior living, based on recommendations from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Exceptions will be made in instances of end-of-life, or when a resident’s health becomes critical and visitation from immediate family members, friends and religious leaders becomes necessary. In those cases, visitors will be subjected to a brief health assessment; the visit may take place in a private area other than the resident’s room.

All resident trips outside of the center are being canceled except those necessary for the resident’s health.

Parks

All nine county parks will remain open to the public, but officials are encouraging those most vulnerable to the coronavirus — the elderly, ill or those with underlying medical conditions — to avoid large gatherings.

Full refunds will be offered to people who want to cancel reservations for park facilities or registrations for nature and recreational programs.

To cancel, email name and permit number to webmaster.parks@alleghenycounty.us, or call 412-350-2455 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.