Update From The Mayor Of North Adams

This information comes from a press release from Mayor Tom Bernard.

Businesses and organizations not on the list of essential services are encouraged to continue operations through remote means that do not require workers, customers, or the public to enter or appear at the brick-and-mortar premises closed by the order.

Restaurants, bars, and other establishments that sell food and beverage products to the public are encouraged to continue to offer food for take-out and by delivery if they follow the social distancing protocols set forth in the Department of Public Health guidance continue operations. On-premises consumption of food or drink is prohibited.
In addition, the March 23 Essential Services and Revised Gatherings Order states that [g]atherings of more than 10 people are prohibited throughout the Commonwealth. Gatherings subject to this Order include, without limitation, community, civic, public, leisure, faith-based, or sporting events, concerts, conferences, conventions, fundraisers, parades, fairs, festivals, weddings, funerals, and any similar event or activity that brings together more than 10 persons in any confined indoor or outdoor space. This limitation shall not apply to the operations or activities of any business or organization in its provision or delivery of COVID-19 Essential Services

This Order does not prohibit gatherings of more than 10 people in an unenclosed, outdoor space such as a park, athletic field, or parking lot. Athletic and recreational activities that bring participants into close, physical contact are prohibited even when involving 10 or fewer people regardless of where conducted.

Update on City of North Adams Operations and Services

In recognition of the Governor’s Order, the following City of North Adams Essential Service functions will remain open:

• North Adams Police Department
• North Adams Fire Department
• North Adams Department of Public Services (including the Transfer Station)
• North Adams Department of Inspection Services
• North Adams Public Schools daily meal distribution sites

 The following departments and offices will operate with essential staff only, or staffed by employees working remotely:

•  City Clerk
• Mayor and Administrative offices
• Treasurer

The following departments and offices will operate with employees working remotely:

• Assessor
• Auditor
• Community Development
• Community Events and Tourism
• Veterans services

The following city buildings which have been closed to the public, but staffed, will be fully closed as of noon on Tuesday, April 24.

• North Adams Public Library
• Mary Spitzer Senior Center

In recognition of the revised gatherings provisions of Governor Baker’s Order all public parks, the skateboard park, sports complexes, athletic fields, and playgrounds may only be used for “passive recreation” (such as walking or jogging) activities that allow for social distancing of at least six feet from other people. City basketball courts and playground equipment are closed until further notice.

Message from Mayor Tom Bernard

Friends,

I know we all are concerned about the COVID-19 Coronavirus and its effect on our community and on our friends and neighbors. Yesterday, we learned of the first COVID-19 death in Berkshire County, and public health experts predict that the number of COVID-19 cases in Massachusetts and in the Berkshires is going to increase, perhaps dramatically, in the coming days.

That’s why we all have a role to play in preventing the spread of this virus. Doing so will protect our healthcare system, our front line responders, and our neighbors, friends, and family members. Experience in other parts of the world has already demonstrated that effective “social distancing” helps to combat the spread of COVID-19.

My team and I are doing our part to meet the terms of the Governor’s Order while we continue to provide essential city services, and city staff have been notified of their work assignments in light of this today’s Order.

In addition, I ask everyone to comply with the Governor’s revised Order prohibiting gatherings of more than 10 people throughout the Commonwealth, including limiting outdoor activities that bring people into close contact.

Please, stay home, even if you aren’t feeling sick. Only go out if you need food, medicine, or medical attention. Do everything you can to avoid crowds. And always wash your hands.

Please check in with your relatives, older neighbors, or those who may need extra help and support right now.

We all are responsible for the health and safety of our community, and I know that together we will get through this. Thank you.