Groton — The Town of Groton has announced it will close its offices to the public beginning Monday, Nov. 30, and will reopen Monday, Dec. 14, to limit any potential post-Thanksgiving increase in COVID-19 cases, according to a town notice.

“These measures will allow time for those that may have been exposed to COVID during the holiday, to get tested and/or quarantine, prior to engaging with our employees, and each other, at our facilities,” the notice states.

Town Manager John Burt said in a video Friday that Groton has experienced 142 new positive COVID-19 cases in the past two weeks. He said that of the people getting tested, 5.7% are testing positive.

The Groton Public Library will close starting Nov. 26 and will reopen on Dec. 14; the book drop will remain available, according to a Facebook notice.

The town noted exceptions to the closures, including that Human Services will be open by appointment; the transfer station will remain open; the Senior Center’s “Grab N’ Go meals” and medical transports will continue; the Community Center Tree House Full Day Distance Learning Program will be open; and virtual programs from Parks and Recreation, the Senior Center and library will continue. People can mail tax payments to 45 Fort Hill Road or pay online at www.groton-ct.gov.

Town offices will be open Tuesday and Wednesday, but will close Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving.

The City of Groton also will close offices to the public beginning Nov. 30 and will reopen on Dec. 14.

The Municipal Building is open Tuesday. City offices will be closed to the public Wednesday but will be available via phone during normal business hours. Offices will be closed this Thursday and Friday due to the holiday. 

“While the building is closed, residents and customers may still call City and utility departments for assistance,” the notice states. “Groton Utilities customers can pay their utility bills either online through the company website, grotonutilities.com, or on the phone with a customer service representative at 860-446-4000." 

“City employees are available to meet with residents or customers by appointment only,” the notice continues. “Please use the blue drop box located in the front of the Municipal Building to drop off any paperwork for any City department.”