Further details were recently released about the Potter County resident who has tested positive for Covid-19/Coronavirus. At the same time, public officials await the results of tests from other patients who show some signs of contracting the virus. A Pa. Dept. of Health official confirmed that the individual who tested positive is from Coudersport. The case was not “community spread.” The victim had been traveling and was quarantined early on, based on the travel. UPMC Cole reported, “We continue to work with public health authorities as we guide this patient on self-isolation and symptom management at home. This case does not require hospitalization, and, if that changes, we are ready to accept this patient to our facilities using infection prevention protocols that will protect the health of our other patients, along with visitors and staff. The communities we serve can be reassured that UPMC facilities are safe and staff are well-equipped and trained to properly care for any patient with COVID-19.”
All county operations have been reduced to essential functions indefinitely. County officials will continue to monitor developments and provide further guidance in the coming days. The following policies and provisions are in effect. Check here for updates:
- A host of services provided through the county are available online or can be conducted by mail or phone. A list of online options and telephone numbers can be found at pottercountypa.net.
- Potter County Dept. of Emergency Services has partially activated the Emergency Operations Center and is limiting public access to its facilities.
- A Judicial Emergency has been declared by President Judge Stephen Minor. With very limited exceptions, all proceedings are continued until April 15 or later. Entry to the Courthouse remains limited to those who have scheduled hearings or prearranged appointments. Security Guards at the Second Street main entrance can offer further guidance.
- At Potter County Human Services, Protective Services, Child Welfare, Crisis, and On-Call staff remain available for emergencies. Caseworkers are regularly conferring with clients by phone to check on their welfare and offer assistance as needed. The Medical Assistance Transportation Program continues to operate.
- The Potter County Treasurer’s Office is closed. Dog licenses can obtained by mail or online at pottercountypa.net (click on Treasurer’s Office). Fishing licenses can be purchased online at gonefishingpa.com.
- Potter County Assessment Office/Tax Claim Bureau is operating on a limited schedule. Delinquent tax payments may be made online at https://paylocalgov.com/pottercounty-pa or by mail to: Potter County Tax Claim, 1 North Main St., Suite 111, Coudersport, PA 16915. Arrangements are being made to accept stay-of-sale agreements by mail. Many forms and applications can be found online at pottercountypa.net (see Tax Claim/Tax Assessment tabs). If you require assistance, email Jake Ostrom at jostrom@pottercountypa.net. or call or text 814-203-0761.
- Potter County Planning/GIS office is closed. The online Tax Parcel Viewer now has printing capabilities at no cost for the duration of the limited office hours. Online mapping services can be found at www.pottercountypa.net. Tools are being developed for digital submission of subdivision & land development applications. In the interim, all plans and associated documents can be mailed to Planning Dept., 1 N. Main St., Coudersport PA 16915. If an in-person appointment is needed, please Will Hunt at 814-274-8290, ext. 229.
- All Potter County Senior Centers are closed. Center participants are being provided their normal lunchtime meals, three days a week, either by delivery or through arrangement for pickup at the centers.
- Visitation to the Potter County Jail has been suspended until further notice.
- Potter County Veterans Affairs Office is no longer available for walk-in service. Director Michael Pepper is available at 814-274-8290, ext. 210.
- Potter County Drug & Alcohol Services is conducting assessments by telephone. Inpatient referrals can still be made and outpatient providers are making therapy available by phone. More information is available online at pottercountyhumansvcs.org.
- Potter County Sheriff’s Department has suspended the issuance of pistol permits. Further details on upcoming sheriff’s sales, permits and civil process can be found on the website pottercountypa.net (Sheriff/Jail Warden tab).
- Potter County Register and Recorder’s Office is closed to the public. Information for those seeking access to documents or other services can be found at pottercountypa.net (click on Register of Will/Recorder of Deeds). The office will be available from 9-11 am weekdays to process mail and e-recordings and to return phone calls. Those with questions or concerns should send email to nlarsen@pottercountypa.NET.
