GRANTS PASS – The Grants Pass City Council adopted a resolution declaring a state of emergency at their special city council meeting Monday, March 23.
The resolution is a “precautionary measure to provide the city with increased flexibility in terms of resources, purchasing, and emergency response options,” said City Manager Aaron Cubic.
Cubic said the resolution is not a declaration of a public health emergency, as that is not the city’s role, but rather an action to “enable the city and staff to be in the best position to serve the community where needed most.”
“All essential city services will continue uninterrupted. We don’t see any change in that,” said Cubic.
Public walk-in traffic at all city offices has been suspended during state mandated social distancing restrictions. The public will still be served where necessary at the city’s main Public Safety Station. Community Development Department services will be available by appointment only.
Parks and trails will remain accessible so that the public can have an “opportunity to enjoy open space and trail systems,” Cubic said. Park facilities such as restrooms, play structures, ball fields, athletic courts, and rental facilities will be closed.
City calendars will be kept current on the city’s website, but all city advisory committee meetings will be canceled until further notice. City council meetings will be scheduled to reduce frequency and duration based on pertinent business only. Social distancing parameters will be followed at all necessary meetings.
The Urban Area Planning Commission and Historical Buildings and Sites Commission will meet when necessary to process any required land use applications. Members will be encouraged to attend meetings online or by telephone when possible.
“Our team mentality will prevail through these extraordinary times and this same team approach will allow us to recover together,” said Cubic.
Additional information is available at the city’s website: www.grantspassoregon.gov, or by phone at (541)450-6000.
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