As the concerns have increased over the last few days with respect to the novel coronavirus COVID-19, the Town of North Attleborough has been watching closely. The Governor of the Commonwealth has declared a state of emergency and has prohibited gatherings of more than 25 people. Additionally, the President has declared a national state of emergency.
Although we do not know what the situation will look like over time, this issue is evolving quickly; the Town must be able to promptly and in a manner consistent with what has been recommended by the Governor, and more generally with the advice of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the U.S. Center for Disease Control.
Accordingly, in consultation with the Board of Health and the Town Council, the Town Manager declares that today, March 19, 2020, that a state of emergency exists in the Town of North Attleborough, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This action is being taken proactively to assist the Town in its administrative capabilities to adapt Town operations and the allocation of resources as the Town braces for response to COVID-19.
This emergency declaration is effective immediately, as of March 19.
The Town Council, Town Manager, Board of Health, School Committee, and the Police and Fire Departments are monitoring the situation closely and will provide additional information as needed. Persons are encouraged to e-mail or call Town officials and employees with typical Town Hall business and requests. We are grateful to the entire community for its calm and measured response to these disruptions to our normal business. The Town, of course, will make every effort to minimize the same as we move forward as a community during this difficult time.
