| Today, as many of you heard in the news, President Trump declared the coronavirus pandemic a national emergency. Governor Inslee also expanded statewide orders to temporarily close schools, prohibit large gatherings, and tighten rules for nursing and assisted care facilities. I know these may seem like drastic or scary measures. We are dealing with an unknown health threat, one that infects more people and touches more lives every day. Bold actions are needed to keep this virus at bay and our community safe. I am committed to doing everything I can to limit COVID-19’s impact in Everett. I’m continuing to work with Snohomish County Executive Somers and his team, Governor Inslee, our health experts and other regional partners to coordinate our response to the COVID-19 situation. Together we’re looking not only for ways to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community, but also ways we can mitigate the adverse consequences. School closures, event cancellations, and social-distancing measures are impacting our local businesses, creating child-care challenges and taking a toll on our economy. We’re actively looking for ways we can help and hope to have more to share on that soon. In the meantime, I encourage you to continue to do your part, too. Stay informed. Wash your hands. Stay home if you’re sick. If you’re over the age of 60 or have a compromised immune system, please try to avoid places where you might get exposed. And for all of us, let’s be good neighbors to each other and help each other out. Situations like these are what truly bring out the best in us and make our community stronger. I am impressed and inspired with the response I’m seeing within our city – from the bravery of our first responders and health care workers, to the dedication of our nonprofits, innovation of our local business leaders, and the good will of our residents. I’m more confident than ever that we’ll get through this. Stay well, Mayor Cassie Resources: Stay informed. The Washington State Department of Health has set up a call center to answer any questions you have: 1-800-525-0127. You’ll also find excellent information on the following websites:Department of HealthSnohomish Health DistrictGovernor Inslee’s OfficeCenter for Disease ControlCity of Everett |