Notice: Access to Eddy County Courthouse restricted

Due to the rise of COVID-19 cases in Eddy County, local officials are asking the public to limit their entrance into the courthouse for important business only. They are also recommending that all visitors wear a mask when entering the courthouse.

In a sign on the courthouse doors, residents are further instructed to use the drop off box located at the bottom of the Courthouse steps to drop off documents for the different County Departments, and to drop off ballot applications for the Auditor. Anyone dropping off any document other than a ballot should make sure it is in a sealed envelope with the name of the designated department or person that it is intended for printed on it.

Below is a list of numbers to call to reach each department:

Auditor – 947-2434, ext. 2020

Clerk of Court – 947-2434, ext. 2013

Eddy County Housing/VSO – 947-2434, ext. 2023

Emergency Manager – 302-8279

Recorder – 947-2434, ext. 2013

Sheriff – 947-2434, ext. 2011

Tax Equalization – 947-2434, ext. 2015

Treasurer – 947-2434, ext. 2017

For court appearances, call Clerk of District Court Office - 947-2434, ext. 2013

"This is for your protection as well as ours," the sign concludes.

The announcement comes as active cases in Eddy County peaked at 21 on Friday. A total of 57 Eddy County residents are known to have been infected with the virus since March. Nearly one-third of residents, or 777 individuals, have been tested for COVID-19 at least once since the pandemic began. The cumulative positive rate for Eddy County is 7.3% (57/777).

The Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd reported Friday that they had identified residents with COVID-19 in their dementia unit, and therefore visitation in the Angel Wing is restricted until further notice. Visitors who consistently visit, have exposure risks, or who feel sick are encouraged to get tested by Eddy County Public Health. Call 947-5311 to set up an appointment. Testing occurs each Tuesday from 9 - 10 a.m. as test supplies are available.