By Josh Durso
The Seneca County Health Department has slapped J. Martin Auction, LLC with violations connected to the coronavirus pandemic, and executive orders issued by Governor Andrew Cuomo.
In a letter published on Wednesday, Vickie Swinehart, Director of Public Health said that Martin Auction had been notified of administrative actions to be taken, pending ratification by the Seneca County Board of Health for violations observed by officials at an event on May 30th.
Health Department officials said the violations stemmed from an observed non-compliance of NYS COVID-19 Emergency Regulations and NYS Agriculture & Markets Interim Guidance for Farm Equipment Auctions.
Officials say that Martin Auction has been cooperative and that steps are being taken to remedy the violations and prevent future ones.
“We are taking violations of emergency regulations very seriously because the health of our community is at stake,” the Health Department said in a statement. “We are notifying businesses that we intend to enforce NYS Executive Orders and we expect compliance with emergency health and safety regulations to further prevent the spread of COVID-19 within Seneca County.”
Officials said that if guidance is not followed – Seneca County will impose a penalty of up to $1,000 per violation. Officials have previously cautioned that if businesses and residents stop practicing social distancing, frequent hand washing, and mask wearing – the virus will spread through the community, resulting in significant public health consequences.
“We have made positive progress and do not want to go backwards,” Swinehart said in the statement. “We need everyone’s cooperation. the safety and economic welfare of our community is in all of our hands. By working together we can ensure the health and safety of residents and our local economy.”
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