Good afternoon Fitchburg Residents,
As you are all aware, the COVID-19 virus has been fluid in its development, and the City has been working with local, state, and federal agencies to take steps to understand, combat, and prevent the spread of the virus.
As we all strive to stay informed and be proactive regarding the novel COVID-19, it is essential that we remain, calm, patient, and understanding.
As of today:
-I have called for a meeting and met with local boards of health and public safety officials from both Fitchburg and Leominster, to meet with Health Alliance President Steve Roach, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Nursing Officer, Paul MacKinnon, and Senior Director of External Affairs, Christopher Hendy. We discussed actions the hospital has taken for preparation and ways in which our communities can help.
**Please remember if you are feeling ill, to visit your primary care physician first, before bringing yourself or a loved one to the emergency room.
-I have spoken with Congresswoman Lori Trahan – Congress is working on an Economic Stimulus Package, with hopes of the House voting on it this afternoon. This will increase access to testing for COVID – 19. It will also address federal reimbursements for sick time and FMLA status. In addition, they are focusing on food programs for children, should schools close.
-I will be setting up regular meetings with Department Heads to assess effects on our city.
-A Memo for Guidelines and best practices have been distributed to city employees
-I have remained in constant contact with Superintendent Jokela and the School Committee on the status of our schools.
-I will continue to work with our City Council, Health Dept., local and state agencies as we learn, develop, and implement solutions.
Fitchburg, I have full faith that we will recover from this trying time. It is important that we remain patient, calm, and thoughtful while we allow our local, state, and federal agencies to provide direction. The power of optimism, making hygienic choices, and continuing to believe in ourselves will be abundantly important. Thank you for your time and attention.
Please find the following links helpful:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
https://www.mass.gov/resource/information-on-the-outbreak-of-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19