PITTSBORO, N.C. (AP) — Staffing shortages related to COVID-19 are closing a Chatham County town's police department and town hall to the public, a town spokesman said.

Pittsboro town spokesman Colby Sawyer said Tuesday that the closure will affect walk-in and drive-through services at Town Hall, The Herald Sun reported. The building will remain closed at least until Monday, Sawyer said.

Chatham is one of 67 counties in the state experiencing high levels of community transmission for the coronavirus, with 255 cases for every 100,000 people, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, only 5.7% of available hospital beds are filled with COVID patients, the CDC reported.

Spectrum News 1 spoke with 81-year-old town resident Paul Landau as he rolled up to pay his utility bill. He was taken by surprise when he learned the building is closed to visitors. 

"It’s unfortunately, it’s reality," he said. 

Pittsboro police work out of the back of the building, and they are also not allowing visitors. Police Chief Shorty Johnson said the department is answering 911 calls and responding to community emergencies. Since walk-in services aren't available, people can chose a drop-off option.  

Anyone who needs to speak to a police officer, can contact the Pittsboro Police Department at 919-542-3200 during regular hours or Chatham County Emergency Communications using the non-emergency number (919-542-2911) during non-business hours. Callers should explain they need to speak to a Pittsboro police officer.