CANTON -- St. Lawrence County is temporarily closing the HB Smith Building, located at 6 Judson Street in Canton, which houses many of the units of the Department of Social Services.

This will include Thursday, Nov. 19 and Friday, Nov. 20. The Department of Social Services will be available during normal business hours on those days and staff will be working remotely. Call 315-379-2111 or email for assistance.

"There has been an exposure to COVID-19 identified and these measures are being taken to ensure the safety and health of county staff as well as the public who may plan to visit the Office in person," an announcement from County Administrator Ruth Doyle said. "The anticipated cooperation of the Public is greatly appreciated. County Staff will be working with Public Health to make all necessary contacts as soon as possible."

Staff will be available to continue providing services by phone and also some services by email. There is also a drop box at the door of the building for applications and other information to be submitted, which will be available.

People who were planning to visit the building in the next couple of days can call or email for assistance.

The county anticipates reopening the building on Monday, Nov. 23 at 8 a.m., unless otherwise noted.